What is Esomeprazole?
Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces stomach acid production. It is available in capsules, tablets, granules, and liquid (oral suspension) forms.
Uses of Esomeprazole
- Healing and maintenance of erosive esophagitis
- Symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Treatment of peptic ulcer disease
- Eradication of H. pylori infection
- Prevention of gastrointestinal bleeds associated with NSAID use
- Long-term treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions, such as Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome
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Get A Second OpinionSide Effects of Esomeprazole
Common side effects include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Gas
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
Serious side effects include:
- Blisters or peeling skin
- Hives
- Rash
- Itching
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- Hoarseness
- Irregular, fast, or pounding heartbeat
- Excessive tiredness
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Muscle spasms, cramps, or weakness
- Jitteriness
- Shaking of a part of the body
- Seizures
- Severe diarrhea with watery stools
- Stomach pain
- Fever
- New or worsening joint pain
- Rash on cheeks or arms that are sensitive to sunlight
- Decreased urination
- Blood in the urine
Precautions To Follow
- Inform your doctor about any allergies to Esomeprazole or related medicines.
- Disclose your medical history, especially liver disease and lupus.
- Seek immediate medical attention for symptoms like chest pain, difficulty swallowing, or bleeding.
- Inform your doctor of all medications, including herbal products, before surgery.
- Long-term use of esomeprazole may increase the risk of bone fractures, especially in older adults.
- Older adults and children may be more prone to side effects.
- Avoid esomeprazole during pregnancy unless advised by a doctor; its effects on breastfeeding are uncertain.
How to Use Esomeprazole
- Read the Drug Guide and Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist.
- Take orally, usually once daily, at least an hour before a meal, or as directed by the physician.
- Follow dosage instructions carefully; do not exceed the prescribed dose or frequency.
- Swallow capsules whole; do not crush or chew.
- If needed, capsules can be opened and contents mixed with unheated applesauce, then consumed immediately.
- Take antacids if needed, but at least 30 minutes before sucralfate if taking it.
- Take it at the same time daily.
- Continue treatment for the prescribed duration; consult the doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
Interactions
Esomeprazole may interact with:
- Cilostazol
- Clopidogrel
- Methotrexate
- Rifampin
- St. John's wort
Certain drugs require stomach acid for absorption, and Esomeprazole may affect their effectiveness, including atazanavir, erlotinib, and certain antifungals.
Dosage
Esomeprazole is available in tablet, injection, and oral suspension forms, with strengths ranging from 10mg to 40mg.
Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember; do not double the dose.
Overdose
Seek medical help or call emergency services if an overdose is suspected.
Storage Instructions
- Keep away from direct heat, moisture, and sunlight.
- Keep away from children.
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Book an AppointmentEsomeprazole vs Omeprazole
|
Esomeprazole |
Omeprazole |
|---|---|
|
Brand Name: Nexium |
Brand Names: Prilosec, Losec |
|
Used to treat problems with the stomach and esophagus (acid reflux, ulcers) |
Used to treat peptic ulcer disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, and Zollinger–Ellison syndrome |
|
Formula: C17H19N3O3S |
Formula: C17H19N3O3S |
|
Treats symptoms of GERD and other disorders with excessive stomach acid |
Also used to treat damage from GERD in adults and children |
