This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Esomeprazole Consumer Information
ESOMEPRAZOLE
Generic Name: esomeprazole (e sew MEH pra zol)
Brand Names: Nexium
What is the most important information I should know about esomeprazole?
- Do not stop taking esomeprazole even if you begin to feel better. Your symptoms may improve before the condition is fully treated.
- Do not break or chew the capsules. Swallow them whole. They are specially formulated to release slowly in the body.
What is esomeprazole?
- Esomeprazole decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach.
- Esomeprazole is used to treat ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD or heartburn), erosive esophagitis, and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid production.
- Esomeprazole may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
Who should not take esomeprazole?
- Before taking esomeprazole, tell your doctor if you have ever had any type of liver disease. You may not be able to take esomeprazole, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring.
- Esomeprazole is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is unlikely to harm an unborn baby. Do not take esomeprazole without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
- It is not known whether esomeprazole passes into breast milk. Do not take esomeprazole without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take esomeprazole?
- 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.
What happens if I miss a 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.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention.
- Symptoms of an esomeprazole overdose include drowsiness, shortness of breath, tremor, loss of coordination, and seizures.
What should I avoid while taking esomeprazole?
- There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activities while taking esomeprazole, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.