Nexium (Esomeprazole) belongs to a group of drugs called proton pump inhibitors. Nexium is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and it is also combined with amoxicillin and clarithromycin (Biaxin) for the treatment of patients with ulcers and H. pylori infection. It is also used to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers due to medications known as NSAIDS that irritate the stomach or to treat conditions associated with the overproduction of stomach acid. The usual starting dose of Nexium is 20mg once a day.
Manufacturer Information
The brand Nexium is manufactured by AstraZeneca (also known as Neksium) and the generic Esomeprazole is primarily from India. It may come from other international countries. Other generic names are known as pms-Esomeprazole DR (by PharmaScience only in 40mg) or Act Esomeprazole (by Acatvis), Nexpro (by Torrent Pharma), Izra (by Unichem) or Esomac (by Cipla). Nexium is promoted as a purple colored tablet, available in three strengths of 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg.
Side effects can be mild or severe. The side effects listed below are not experienced by everyone who takes this medication. If you are concerned about the side effects, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.
Serious side effects include:
• Confusion;
• Enlarged breasts (males);
• Hallucinations (seeing, feeling, hearing things that are not there);
• Mood or behaviour changes;
• Muscle pain or weakness;
• Sensitivity to the sun;
• Shortness of breath;
• Signs of liver problems (yellowing of the skin and eye whites);
• Skin reactions (such as rash, itching or hives);
• Sore joints;
• Swelling inside the mouth
Less serious side effects include:
• Abdominal pain;
• Constipation;
• Diarrhea;
• Dizziness;
• Drowsiness;
• Dry mouth;
• Gas;
• Headache;
• Nausea or vomiting;
• Trouble sleeping
Stop taking Esomeprazole and seek immediate medical attention if you see any signs of a severe allergic reaction such as hives, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the tongue, face mouth or throat. Do not take Esomeprazole if you are allergic to Esomeprazole or any of its ingredients. Notify your doctor if you have ever had liver disease or any type of heart disease. There may be an interaction between Esomeprazole and other medications such as clopidogrel, itraconazole, ketoconazole, tacrolimus, warfarin, etc.
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