Description
Nexium is a medication that is available in delayed-release capsules and an oral suspension.
Nexium is used to treat erosive esophagitis (EE), heartburn and other symptoms caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Helicobacter pylori, and pathological hypersecretory conditions such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Nexium is also used to decrease the risk of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-associated gastric ulcers.
Fact Table |
Formula |
C17H19N3O3S |
License |
EU EMA, US FDA |
Bioavailability |
50-90% |
Legal status |
RX Only |
Chemical Name |
Esomeprazole |
Elimination half-life |
1-1.5 hours |
Dosage (Strength) |
20mg (84 tablets), 40mg (84 tablets) |
Pregnancy |
Consult a doctor |
Brands |
Nexium |
Protein binding |
97% |
PubChem CID |
9579578 |
MedlinePlus |
a699054 |
ChEBI |
50275 |
ATC code |
A02BC05 |
DrugBank |
DB00736 |
KEGG |
D07917 |
Routes of administration |
By mouth |
Directions
Take Nexium exactly as your doctor has prescribed. If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.
The Nexium dosage depends on age and the condition being treated. Your doctor will tell you how much Nexium is right for you and how long you should take it.
Nexium capsules should be swallowed whole; avoid crushing or chewing them. If you are unable to swallow the capsule whole, you may open it and mix the contents with applesauce.
Nexium oral suspension packets should be mixed with water.
Ingredients
Esomeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, is the active ingredient in Nexium. The capsules and the oral suspension contain inactive ingredients. Refer to the package insert for a full list of ingredients.
Contraindications
Patients who are allergic to substituted benzimidazole or to any of the ingredients in Nexium should not take the medication.
Patients should not take Nexium if they are also taking medications that contain rilpivirine.
Cautions
- Before you start treatment with Nexium, tell your doctor about:
- All the prescription and over-the-counter medications you take
- Your allergies
- Your past medical history and current health problems
- Your pregnancy or breastfeeding status
- Adequate response to Nexium does not mean there is no gastric cancer; therefore, follow-up and diagnostic testing should be considered in adults who have a suboptimal response or an early symptomatic relapse after completing Nexium treatment.
- Acute tubulointerstitial nephritis can occur with Nexium use.
- Nexium may increase the risk of Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea.
- Nexium may increase the risk for osteoporosis-related hip, wrist, or spine fractures.
- Severe cutaneous adverse reactions may occur with Nexium use.
- Cutaneous and systemic lupus erythematosus can occur with Nexium. If this occurs, Nexium should be stopped and the patient should be evaluated by a specialist.
- Nexium should not be taken with Plavix (clopidogrel), St. John’s Wort, or rifampin.
- Long-term use of Nexium may cause vitamin B12 malabsorption or deficiency.
- Low magnesium levels and mineral metabolism may occur with long-term use of Nexium.
- Diagnostic investigations for neuroendocrine tumors can be affected by Nexium; therefore, Nexium should be temporarily stopped for at least 14 weeks before diagnostic investigations.
- Taking Nexium with methotrexate may increase or prolong serum concentrations of methotrexate and/or its metabolite. This can lead to toxicity.
- Long-term use of Nexium can increase the risk of fundic gland polyps.
Side Effects
Common Nexium side effects include headache, diarrhea, nausea, gas, stomach pain, constipation, and dry mouth. Other side effects can occur. Call your doctor right away if you have side effects that bother you or won’t go away.
Reference:
Nexium. Wilmington, DE: AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP; 2022.
About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)
Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....
IMPORTANT NOTE:
The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.
Product Code : 1679