ORIGINAL USES (ON-LABEL) Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), severe erosive esophagitis; treatment of active duodenal ulcers in combination with antiinfectives for Helicobacter pylori infection
BRAND NAME Nexium
DRUG CLASS
Gastrointestinal/Proton Pump Inhibitor
DESCRIPTION
Nexium is indicated for the treatment of erosive gastritis (damage to lower esophagus by acid reflux from stomach), moderate to severe heartburn, and reduction in reoccurance of duodenal ulcers. It acts by inhibiting proton pumps (hydrogen ion) in the stomach. This inhibition reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
The most common side effects are headache (5%), diarrhea, nausea, flatulence (gas) abdominal pain and constipation.
CAUTIONS
Contraindicated with hypersensitivity to omeprazole, esomeprazole, or other proton pump inhibitor.
Use cautiously with hepatic dysfunction, pregnancy, lactation.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Increased serum levels and potential increase in toxicity of benzodiazepines and phenytoin when taken concurrently.
May interfere with absorption of drugs dependent upon presence of acidic environment (eg ketoconazole, iron salts, digoxin)
PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
Pregnancy category B; likely to be excreted into breast milk, use caution in nursing mothers (suppression of gastric acid secretion is potential effect in nursing infant, clinical significance unknown)
SPECIAL INFORMATION
Take the drug at least 1 hr before meals. Swallow the capsules whole; do not chew or crush. If you cannot swallow the capsule, it can be opened and sprinkled in applesauce or mixed in tap water, orange or apple juice, or yogurt; do not crush or chew the pellets. This drug will need to be taken for 4–8 wk, at which time your condition will be reevaluated.
Report severe headache, worsening of symptoms, fever, chills, darkening of the skin, changes in color of urine or stool.
