Nexium has been approved by the FDA for the relief of heartburn and other symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and for the healing of erosive esophagitis, a potentially serious condition associated with GERD. The FDA also approved it for maintenance of healing of erosive esophagitis and, in combination with amoxicillin and clarithromycin, for the eradication of Helicobacter pylori infection in patients with duodenal ulcer disease.
This drug is derived from Prilosec (omeprazole). Prilosec contains a racemic mixture of the D- and L- forms (isomers) of omeprazole. This tablet contains only one of the isomers. These drugs are known as proton pump inhibitors.
Mechanism of Action :
Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that suppresses gastric acid secretion by specific inhibition of H+/K+-ATPase in the gastric parietal cell. By acting specifically on the proton pump, esomeprazole blocks the final step in acid production, thus reducing gastric acidity. This effect is dose-related up to a daily dose of 20 to 40 mg and leads to inhibition of gastric acid secretion.
Treating gastric reflux with Nexium :
This tablet 40mg contains esomeprazole, which is used to treat conditions caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD). Gastric reflux is when the acidic contents of the stomach flow back into the oesophagus (gullet), because the sphincter (muscle at the junction of the oesophagus and stomach) that normally acts as a one-way valve and prevents backflow of stomach contents, does not function properly or is damaged. Symptoms caused by gastric reflux include heartburn and dyspepsia (indigestion and abdominal pain), and damage to the oesophagus causing inflammation (oesophagitis). Esomeprazole reduces acid secretion by parietal cells of the stomach wall, by blocking the action of the enzyme H+/K+-ATPase, which is responsible for acid production. This action of esomeprazole reduces the acidity of the stomach contents, which reduces the acid damage that can be caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) and oesophagitis, relieves symptoms caused by excess gastric acid like heartburn and dyspepsia; as well as helping damaged tissues caused by excess acid to heal.
When should Nexium not be used?
You should not use if you:Are allergic to esomeprazole, any other proton pump inhibitor or any ingredients in it.taking medication that interacts with this drug , including: the antifungals ketoconazole and itraconazole, the anticoagulant warfarin, phenytoin for epilepsy, the antiretroviral atazanavir, the antibiotic clarithromycin, the immunosuppressive tacrolimus, the sedative diazepam
How should Nexium be taken?
You should take tablets with a glass of water at least one hour before a meal. You should continue to take your tablets 40mg for as long as recommended by your doctor, usually for a few weeks to 6 months, depending on the condition you are being treated for.
Side Effects :
Side effects reported with this drug use include (but are not limited to) the following:HeadacheDiarrheaAbdominal painSafety and effectiveness have not yet been established in pediatric patients.
Storage : Store this pill at room temperature. Protect from heat, light and moisture. Keep away from reach of children.