Nexium

What is this medicine?

ESOMEPRAZOLE (es oh ME pray zol) prevents the production of acid in the stomach. It is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), ulcers, certain bacteria in the stomach, and inflammation of the esophagus. It can also be used to prevent ulcers in patients taking medicines called NSAIDs.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for infusion into a vein. It is given by a health care professional in a hospital or clinic setting. Read More ›

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for infants as young as one month for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• bone, muscle or joint pain

• breathing problems

• chest pain or chest tightness

• dark yellow or brown urine

• fast, irregular heartbeat

• feeling faint or lightheaded

• fever or sore throat

• muscle spasms

• tremors

• unusual bleeding or bruising

• unusually weak or tired

• upset stomach

• yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (Report these to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome.):

• constipation

• diarrhea

• dry mouth

• headache

• nausea

• stomach pain or gas

• vomiting

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• atazanavir

• nelfinavir

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• ampicillin

• digoxin

• diuretics

• iron salts

• itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole, or other prescription medicines for fungus or yeast infections

• warfarin

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

Where should I keep my medicine?

This does not apply. You will not be given this medicine to use at home.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• liver disease

• low levels of magnesium in the blood

• an unusual or allergic reaction to esomeprazole, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

It can take several days before your stomach pains get better. Check with your doctor or health care professional if your condition does not start to get better, or if it gets worse.

You may need blood work done while you are taking this medicine.