NEXIUM Nexium prevents the production of acid in the stomach. It reduces symptoms and prevents injury to the esophagus, stomach, or intestines in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or ulcers.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

ESOMEPRAZOLE MAGNESIUM - ORAL

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): NEXIUM

USES: To relief heartburn and heal damaging erosions of the esophagus.

HOW TO USE: Take esomeprazole exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. Esomeprazole should be taken at least one hour before a meal. Follow your doctor's instructions. Do not break or chew the capsules. Swallow them whole. They are specially formulated to release slowly in the body. If you have difficulty swallowing the capsules, one tablespoon of applesauce can be added to an empty bowl and the esomeprazole capsule can be opened, and the pellets inside the capsule carefully emptied onto the applesauce. The pellets should be mixed with the applesauce and then swallowed immediately. The applesauce should not be hot and should be soft enough to be swallowed without chewing. The pellets should not be chewed or crushed. The pellet / applesauce mixture should not be stored for later use. Do not stop taking esomeprazole even if! you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the condition is fully treated. Store esomeprazole at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

SIDE EFFECTS: If you experience an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives), stop taking esomeprazole and seek emergency medical attention. Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take esomeprazole and talk to your doctor if you experience: headache, diarrhea, nausea, flatulence, abdominal pain or constipation and dry mouth. Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

PRECAUTIONS: It can take several days of therapy with nexium before your stomach pains improve. Check with your prescriber or health care professional if your condition does not improve, or if it gets worse. You can take antacids for the occasional relief of pain unless your prescriber or health care professional tells you otherwise.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Ampicillin; diazepam; digoxin; iron salts; itraconazole and ketoconazole.

OVERDOSE: Seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of an esomeprazole overdose include: drowsiness, shortness of breath, tremor, loss of coordination and seizures.

NOTES: Prescriber needs to know if you have any of these conditions: liver disease; an unusual or allergic reaction to esomeprazole, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives; pregnant or trying to get pregnant; breast-feeding.

MISSED DOSE: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

STORAGE: Keep out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture.

Disclaimer
This information is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice. Be sure to contact your physician, pharmacist or other health care provider for more information about this medication.