{"id":1364,"date":"2023-10-25T14:35:21","date_gmt":"2023-10-25T14:35:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/?p=1364"},"modified":"2023-10-25T14:35:21","modified_gmt":"2023-10-25T14:35:21","slug":"esomeprazole","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/irritable-bowel-syndrome-medications\/esomeprazole\/","title":{"rendered":"About Esomeprazole (Nexium): A Patient\u2019s Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><b>Highlights\u00a0\u00a0<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>If you have persistent heartburn, your doctor may prescribe esomeprazole (Nexium).<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>This medication reduces stomach acid production by blocking specific enzymes in the stomach lining.<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>Some of esomeprazole\u2019s long-term side effects can be severe.<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>There are 21 major drug interactions esomeprazole users should be aware of in addition to minor and moderate interactions.<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you have heartburn, and it keeps returning after the effects of your antacids wear off, your doctor may prescribe esomeprazole (Nexium). Esomeprazole interferes with stomach acid production. It doesn\u2019t neutralize existing acid; instead, it causes the body to produce less of this essential digestive enzyme.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What Is Esomeprazole and What Is It Used For?<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-1369 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/2.jpeg-4-min.jpg\" alt=\"Gastroesophageal reflux disease\" width=\"780\" height=\"585\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Esomeprazole belongs to a class of medications called proton pump inhibitors, drugs that interfere with the biochemistry of stomach acid production.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">FDA-Approved Uses<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Esomeprazole is used to treat a range of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/journals.lww.com\/co-gastroenterology\/abstract\/2007\/11000\/gastric_secretion.3.aspx\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">digestive problems<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> caused by excess stomach acid, including:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This medication helps relieve symptoms like heartburn, acid regurgitation, and irritation of the esophagus caused by stomach acid.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Peptic ulcers. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Esomeprazole is used in combination with antibiotics to treat <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/acid-reflux-medications\/managing-internal-peptic-ulcer\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">internal ulcers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, also called peptic ulcers, caused by <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">infection.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This medication is also prescribed for rare conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, where the stomach produces excessive amounts of acid.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Esomeprazole is not an emergency solution for dealing with heartburn. It\u2019s a longer-term treatment option to prevent chronic problems and help already-damaged areas of the digestive tract to heal.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Off-Label Uses of Esomeprazole\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doctors sometimes prescribe esomeprazole for off-label uses, meaning that treatment of these conditions has not been formally approved by the FDA.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These off-label conditions include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Stress ulcer prevention.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> In hospital settings, esomeprazole may be used to prevent stress ulcers in critically ill patients.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID)-induced ulcers. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It may be used to prevent ulcers in people who have been taking NSAIDs for a long time.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Functional dyspepsia. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some doctors prescribe esomeprazole for functional dyspepsia, a condition characterized by chronic discomfort in the upper abdomen that is not linked to any specific disease.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Eosinophilic esophagitis. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Esomeprazole may be used to treat eosinophilic esophagitis, an allergic inflammatory condition of the esophagus.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Laryngopharyngeal reflux: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It may also be used to treat symptoms of laryngopharyngeal reflux, where stomach acid flows back into the larynx and pharynx.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Gastritis. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Esomeprazole is sometimes used to manage symptoms of gastritis, an inflammation of the stomach lining that can cause discomfort, indigestion, and ulcers.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Gastroparesis: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Though not a standard treatment, this medication may be used to manage symptoms of gastroparesis, a condition where the stomach empties too slowly.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The History of Esomeprazole\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Swedish researchers developed esomeprazole by <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK100896\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">mirroring the chemical structure<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of omeprazole.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Astra AB\u2019s research and development specialists discovered <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/omeprazole-dr-10-mg-capsule\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">omeprazole<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in the late 1970s. Authorities approved the stomach-acid-reducing drug in 1989, and researchers concluded that esomeprazole was <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/full\/10.1046\/j.1365-2036.2000.00813.x\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">a better proton pump inhibitor<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> than omeprazole.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Following clinical trials, esomeprazole received approval from the FDA in <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.accessdata.fda.gov\/drugsatfda_docs\/nda\/2001\/21154_nexium.cfm\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2001<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. AstraZeneca marketed the drug under the brand name Nexium. Nexium\u2019s patent in the U.S. expired in May 2014, allowing pharmaceutical companies to make generic versions of the drug.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nexium\u2019s popularity resulted in overprescription and widespread long-term use. The long-term side effects of the drug prompted lawsuits that created controversy around Nexium. Some medical professionals argue that its <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6372031\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">long-term side effects<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> may not justify its use. (See What are the Potential Side Effects of Esomeprazole below.)<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, Nexium continues to be the most widely used esomeprazole brand. You may also find this medication under other brand names like Nexpro, Esomezol, and Axagon.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One esomeprazole preparation is available over the counter as Nexium 24HR, marketed as a remedy for frequent heartburn.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>How Does Esomeprazole Work?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a proton pump inhibitor, esomeprazole interferes with stomach acid production by blocking the transport of hydrogen ions to the stomach. It achieves its effects through the parietal cells.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The stomach needs hydrogen ions (protons) to create hydrochloric acid in the stomach. The acid breaks down food and is a key component of the digestive process.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you ingest an esomeprazole capsule, the active substance reaches the parietal cells in the inner lining of your stomach. It attaches itself to the proton pump enzymes, deactivating them. With only some proton pumps working, the quantity of acid in the stomach drops. With less acid, the pH of the stomach drops as well.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Esomeprazole binds to proton pump enzymes irreversibly. This means its effects are lasting.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What Formulas Are Available for Esomeprazole?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Esomeprazole is mainly a prescription medication, though Nexium 24HR is available over the counter as a remedy for frequent heartburn.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescription esomeprazole is available in three forms: esomeprazole magnesium, esomeprazole strontium, and esomeprazole sodium.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Esomeprazole magnesium. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is the most commonly used form of esomeprazole and is widely available. It\u2019s the form used in Nexium.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Esomeprazole strontium. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This formulation is less commonly used and is generally considered to be interchangeable with esomeprazole magnesium for most indications. However, it has a longer duration of action, which may affect dosing schedules.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Esomeprazole sodium. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is only available as an intravenous solution and must be administered in a hospital setting.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Esomeprazole is available in several formulations:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Tablet. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nexium is available only as tablets.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Capsule. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Esomeprazole magnesium and esomeprazole strontium are available in capsule forms. These capsules release their contents only in the acidic section of the digestive tract. Capsules are also used for people who receive continuous enteral nutrition (tube feedings).\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sprinkle capsule. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This medication is available in a delayed-release sprinkle capsule form, commonly known as &#8220;omeprazole sprinkle capsules,&#8221; or Zegerid OTC.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Liquid. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Patients who can\u2019t swallow tablets or capsules can get esomeprazole magnesium in liquid suspension form.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Intravenous. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As discussed above, only esomeprazole sodium is available in intravenous form. Only a qualified healthcare provider can administer the drug in this form.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Esomeprazole Dosage and Administration<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-1370\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/3.jpeg-min-1.jpg\" alt=\"doctor administering the right Esomeprazole dosage \" width=\"780\" height=\"542\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doctors use esomeprazole to treat many gastrointestinal conditions. They know how to set the dosage. Regardless of the circumstances, never set your own dose or take esomeprazole and other proton pump inhibitors without a prescription.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adult Dosage for GERD\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">GERD treatment with esomeprazole is generally a four-week course. If your GERD persists after a four-week treatment, your doctor may decide to repeat the therapy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For GERD, doctors usually prescribe 20 milligrams of esomeprazole magnesium per day, orally. Some doctors may prescribe 24.65 milligrams of esomeprazole strontium instead.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If erosive esophagitis accompanies GERD, you may receive 20 to 40 milligrams of esomeprazole sodium in intravenous injection form to facilitate healing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adult Dosage for Erosive Esophagitis\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you suffer from this condition, your doctor may prescribe 20 to 40 milligrams of esomeprazole magnesium or 24.65 to 49.3 milligrams of esomeprazole strontium per day, orally.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After the initial therapy lasting four to eight weeks, erosive esophagitis patients may go on a maintenance dose of 20 milligrams of esomeprazole magnesium or 24.65 milligrams of esomeprazole strontium per day, orally.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adult Dosage for <\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">H. pylori <\/span><\/h3>\n<p><i style=\"font-family: 'PT Serif', serif; font-size: 14px;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hpylori <\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">therapy is a complex treatment, and esomeprazole is just one of its components. To defeat the infection in adults, doctors will generally prescribe 40 milligrams of esomeprazole magnesium in combination with <\/span><a style=\"font-family: 'PT Serif', serif; font-size: 14px;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/clarithromycin.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">clarithromycin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a style=\"font-family: 'PT Serif', serif; font-size: 14px;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/amoxicillin-250-mg-capsule\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">amoxicillin<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. The duration of the therapy is generally ten days.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes, instead of 40 milligrams of esomeprazole magnesium, doctors may prescribe 49.3 milligrams of esomeprazole strontium once a day orally, also for ten days.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adult Dose for Gastric Ulcer Resulting From NSAIDs\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long-term use of NSAIDs can cause the development of ulcers. Doctors will typically prescribe 20 to 40 milligrams of oral esomeprazole magnesium per day to treat them. Alternatively, they may give patients 24.65 to 49.3 milligrams of esomeprazole strontium per day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gastric ulcer therapy with esomeprazole typically lasts for six months.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adult Dose for Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The usual dose for adults suffering from this condition is 20 to 40 milligrams of esomeprazole magnesium per day or 24.65 to 49.3 milligrams of esomeprazole strontium per day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, higher doses aren\u2019t uncommon. Some doctors may prescribe doses of 240 milligrams per day. The management of this condition requires long-term treatment, and your doctor will set and adjust your dosage according to your personal medical history.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adult Dose for Pathological Hypersecretory Conditions\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If your stomach produces too much acid due to an underlying condition, esomeprazole can help. For this condition, doctors usually prescribe 40 milligrams of esomeprazole magnesium twice a day. They may alternatively prescribe 49.3 milligrams of esomeprazole strontium twice a day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doctors may always adjust the dosage based on your health condition and specific circumstances.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adult Dose for Duodenal Ulcer and Gastric Ulcer\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The duodenum is the part of the digestive system between the stomach and the small intestine. Like the stomach, it can develop sores due to excess acid. Doctors can use esomeprazole to treat this condition.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Usually, the solution is esomeprazole sodium, administered through IV infusion. The typical starting dose is 80 milligrams administered over 30 minutes. For maintenance, doctors may administer 8 milligrams per hour for 72 hours. Only healthcare professionals can administer this medication, typically in a hospital setting.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Following IV therapy, doctors usually prescribe an oral medication-based treatment.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children\u2019s Dose for GERD\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children up to 11 years old generally receive 10 milligrams of esomeprazole magnesium once a day. The typical duration of a therapy is eight weeks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children between 11 and 17 may receive 20 milligrams of oral esomeprazole magnesium per day.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Esomeprazole sodium IV infusion therapy can also be used for children, but doctors only use it as a short-term solution for GERD.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children\u2019s Dose for Erosive Esophagitis\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For toddlers less than one year old, doctors may prescribe 2.5 to 10 milligrams of oral esomeprazole magnesium per day, depending on body weight. This therapy may last up to six weeks.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For children between ages 1 and 11, the usual dose for this condition is 10 to 20 milligrams of oral esomeprazole magnesium per day, depending on body weight.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The therapy may last from four to eight weeks. Doctors don\u2019t yet know how children react to higher doses of esomeprazole.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>How Should I Take Esomeprazole?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The following guidelines are important to follow, no matter which form of esomeprazole you\u2019re taking.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Take with food and at the same time every day. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Food may interfere with the absorption of esomeprazole. When esomeprazole is given to patients receiving tube feedings, the feeding should be interrupted for at least one hour before and one hour after the dose of esomeprazole. This will make it easier for your body to absorb the medication.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Take only as directed. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Always take esomeprazole as prescribed by your doctor. These are potent drugs, and patients should not take any liberties with them. Your doctor knows exactly how much you need and how much of the drug your body can handle.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Don\u2019t extend treatment on your own. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you complete your treatment, don\u2019t begin a second round. If you fail to improve or your symptoms get worse, contact your doctor.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Never chew film-coated tablets or delayed-release capsules. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The coating and the capsule play important roles in these medications \u2014 they ensure the active substance is released only in the targeted section of the digestive tract.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Don\u2019t discontinue the medication unless your doctor tells you to. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Esomeprazole may improve your symptoms quickly. Continue taking the medication even if you feel well.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>If you\u2019re taking an antibiotic, complete the full course. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doctors often prescribe an antibiotic along with esomeprazole for conditions like <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">H. pylori<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Always complete the full course of the treatment your doctor prescribes.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Be sure your providers know you\u2019re taking esomeprazole. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Be aware that esomeprazole can affect some medical test results, so your doctors need to know that you\u2019re taking it.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>What Precautions Should I Take With Esomeprazole?<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Allergy information: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Inform your doctor and pharmacist about any allergies you have to esomeprazole or related medications. Request a list of ingredients in esomeprazole capsules or powder from your pharmacist.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Medication interactions: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Discuss all medications you&#8217;re currently taking or plan to take with your doctor and pharmacist before starting esomeprazole. Consult them before making any changes to your medication regimen.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Additional supplements: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Share with your healthcare providers what prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and nutritional supplements you are taking or plan to take. Your medication doses may need adjustment.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Nonprescription interactions: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Certain nonprescription or herbal products like iron supplements and St. John&#8217;s wort may interact with esomeprazole. Consult your healthcare provider before starting these medications.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Nonprescription usage:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If you&#8217;re considering nonprescription esomeprazole, inform your doctor about any long-term heartburn symptoms or other concerning symptoms like chest pain, unexplained weight loss, or bloody vomit.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Health history: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tell your doctor if you have or have had issues with low levels of magnesium, calcium, or potassium, hypoparathyroidism, low vitamin B12 levels, osteoporosis, autoimmune diseases, or liver disease.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Pregnancy and breastfeeding:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Notify your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Contact your doctor if you become pregnant while taking esomeprazole.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Age considerations:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If you are 70 or older, discuss the risks and benefits of taking esomeprazole with your doctor. Follow the recommended usage duration.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>What Are the Potential Side Effects of Esomeprazole?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Like any medication, esomeprazole can cause side effects. These can range from mild to severe.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Potentially Severe Side Effects\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The more severe side effects of the drug are relatively rare, but they usually require immediate medical attention. These include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Kidney problems. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Symptoms may include changes in urination, blood in urine, and swelling in the extremities.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b><i>Clostridium difficile (C. difficile)<\/i><\/b><b>-associated diarrhea.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Severe diarrhea that may be associated with an underlying infection.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bone fractures. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long-term use or high doses have been linked to an increased risk of bone fractures.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Low magnesium levels. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Symptoms may include seizures, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, or muscle spasms.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Atrophic gastritis. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long-term use can lead to inflammation of the stomach lining.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Anaphylactic reactions.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Severe allergic reactions are rare but can be life-threatening.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other Side Effects of Esomeprazole\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most commonly reported reactions to this medication are changes in taste and an unpleasant aftertaste. Drugs.com lists many side effects to this medication that are either less common or whose frequency is unknown. Please refer to <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/sfx\/esomeprazole-side-effects.html#serious-side-effects\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">esomeprazole side effects<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for the complete list.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Everyone reacts differently to medication, and no one will experience all side effects of a drug. In many cases, more common, less-severe side effects may resolve as your body adjusts to the medication.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you experience any new or unusual symptoms that make you uncomfortable, talk to your doctor right away.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What Should I Avoid When Taking Esomeprazole?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When taking esomeprazole long term, avoid situations where you may expose yourself to strong physical shocks. This medication may turn your bones brittle, making them more likely to fracture.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<div id=\"attachment_1371\" style=\"width: 790px\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-1371\" class=\"wp-image-1371\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/4.jpeg-min-1.jpg\" alt=\"American football players playing rough\" width=\"780\" height=\"390\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-1371\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Avoid rough physical activities<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you happen to get diarrhea while using esomeprazole, don\u2019t take anti-diarrheal medication \u2014 call your doctor instead.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Esomeprazole?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you forget to take a dose of Nexium, take it as soon as you remember it. If it\u2019s almost time to take your next dose, skip it. Never take two doses to make up for a missed one.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>What Should I Do If I Overdose on Esomeprazole?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you overdose on esomeprazole, seek medical attention immediately. Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2>Contraindications<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some people should not take esomeprazole. Others should use it with caution under close medical supervision.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Keep in mind that these lists are general guidelines. In special cases, doctors may feel the benefits of taking a particular medication outweigh the risks, so if you are in one of these groups, talk to your doctor about your personal situation.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Who Should Not Take Esomeprazole?\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As a general guideline, you shouldn\u2019t take esomeprazole if you have:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>A known hypersensitivity. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you are highly sensitive or allergic to esomeprazole, other proton pump inhibitors, or any of the inactive ingredients in the medication, don\u2019t take omeprazole. Hypersensitivity reactions may include rash, itching, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>A history of acute interstitial nephritis. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This kidney condition has been associated with proton pump inhibitor use.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>If you take a medication that has a known interaction with esomeprazole. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some medications have a known interaction with esomeprazole, such as certain antiretrovirals, anticoagulants, or anti-cancer medications.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Are taking clopidogrel.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Esomeprazole can interfere with the effectiveness of this antiplatelet medication.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you belong to one of these groups, consult a healthcare provider about your personal risks.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Who Should Take Esomeprazole With Caution?\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>People with liver disorders.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Esomeprazole is metabolized in the liver, and those with liver dysfunction may require dosage adjustments.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Individuals at risk for osteoporosis or bone fractures. <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long-term use of esomeprazole has been associated with an increased risk of bone fractures.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Patients with low magnesium levels.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Long-term use can lead to hypomagnesemia, which may require monitoring and supplementation.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Those taking certain other medications.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Esomeprazole can interact with a variety of other drugs, including certain antiretrovirals, anticoagulants, and anti-cancer medications. (See Potential Drug Interactions below.)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Pregnant or breastfeeding women.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> While esomeprazole is generally considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, it&#8217;s best to consult a healthcare provider.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Elderly patients.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of esomeprazole and may require dosage adjustments.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Are There Any Other Potential Drug Interactions With Esomeprazole?<\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to Drugs.com, a total of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/drug-interactions\/esomeprazole-index.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">197 drugs and supplements<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can interact with this medication. Of these, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/drug-interactions\/esomeprazole-index.html?filter=3\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">21 are considered major<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Major Interactions\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Potential major interactions include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heart medicines like <\/span><b>digoxin<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Medicines for peripheral arterial disease, such as <\/span><b>cilostazol<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antifungal medicines, like <\/span><b>itraconazole<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>ketoconazole<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>posaconazole<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and <\/span><b>voriconazole<\/b><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Methotrexate<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><b>HIV medicines<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Epilepsy medicines<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">like <\/span><b>phenytoin<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Antibiotics like <\/span><b>rifampicin<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blood thinners,<\/span> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">such as<\/span><b> clopidogrel<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>warfarin\u00a0<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These interactions can cause a variety of side effects, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increased levels of esomeprazole in the blood, which can increase the risk of side effects<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decreased levels of other medications in the blood, which can make them less effective<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increased toxicity of other medications in the blood<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other Interactions<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are also <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/drug-interactions\/esomeprazole-index.html?filter=2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">142 moderate<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/drug-interactions\/fluticasone-index.html?filter=1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">34 minor<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> potential interactions reported for this medication. For a quick way to find out if a medication you take is on the list, you can search for it using the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.drugs.com\/drug_interactions.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drugs.com Drug Interactions Checker<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Be sure to search for the specific formulation of esomeprazole you\u2019re taking, as the interactions vary among the formulations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Note that no list of potential drug interactions is complete, so let your provider know if you experience any new or unusual symptoms after taking this medication.<\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n<h2>Get the Lowest Price for Esomeprazole With BidRx<\/h2>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-1372\" src=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/10\/5.jpeg-1-min.jpg\" alt=\"doctor holding Esomeprazole pills\" width=\"780\" height=\"520\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With BidRx, you can create bids for the medications you need and watch pharmacies compete to fill your prescriptions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Create an account at BidRx, log in, look for esomeprazole in the medications section, and create your bid. You\u2019ll find the drug at BidRx as<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/esomeprazole-dr-10-mg-packet\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">40-milligram capsules<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">,<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/esomeprazole-mag-dr-20-mg-tab\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">20-milligram tablets<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/medicine_details\/esomeprazole-dr-10-mg-packet\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">10-milligram packets<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for oral suspension.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/home\/Contents\/customers\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Create your bid today!<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Please note that this information is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication.<\/span><\/i><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that reduces the production of stomach acid. Learn about esomeprazole\u2019s mechanism of action and its side effects.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1365,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[40],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1364","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-irritable-bowel-syndrome-medications"],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1364","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1364"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1364\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1373,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1364\/revisions\/1373"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1365"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1364"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1364"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.bidrx.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1364"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}