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 - ORAL DELAYED RELEASE CAPSULE

(ess-oh-MEH-pruh-zole)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Nexium

Uses

This medication is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to treat ulcers, esophagitis, and other conditions due to acid secretion (e.g., GERD). It works by blocking the production of acid in the stomach. When treating ulcers, this medication may be prescribed along with antibiotics.

How To Use

Take this medication by mouth usually once daily at least one hour before food; or take as directed by your doctor. Do not crush or chew the capsules. Swallow the capsule(s) whole. If you have difficulty swallowing this medication whole, the capsule may be opened and the contents sprinkled into soft food (applesauce or yogurt) and taken as directed. Do not chew the food/medication mixture or make-up a supply in advance. Doing so may destroy the drug and/or increase side effects. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy.

Side Effects

Headache, diarrhea, nausea, gas, stomach pain, constipation, or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: throat pain, chest pain, severe stomach pain, coffee-ground vomit. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heartburn combined with lightheadedness or sweating or dizziness, chest pain or shoulder/jaw pain especially with shortness of breath, pain spreading to arms or neck or shoulders, unexplained weight loss, liver problems, other stomach problems (e.g., tumors), any allergies (including drug allergies). Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using esomeprazole. Based on information for similar drugs, this medication may pass into breast milk. Therefore, consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially: digoxin, diazepam, ketoconazole, itraconazole, iron supplements, vitamins with iron, cilostazol. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include confusion, extreme sweating, blurred vision, or unusually fast heartbeat.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.