Manufacturer: Astra Zeneca
Pharmaceutical name: Esomeprazole
Pack: 28 pills (20 mg)
Esomeprazole is the main component in Nexium. It functions as a proton pump inhibitor and is formulated to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, dyspepsia, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. The medication reduces acid production by inhibiting ATPase in gastric parietal cells, thus preventing the formation of gastric acid. Nexium provides relief from acid reflux symptoms for an entire day and aids in healing esophageal erosions, which is why it is referred to as the Healing Purple Pill.
Nexium is primarily prescribed for treating erosive esophagitis, specifically aimed at alleviating symptoms and promoting the healing of clinically confirmed erosive esophagitis (EE). It is also utilized for maintaining the healing and resolution of EE. Erosive esophagitis is a serious condition that involves damage to the esophagus, primarily caused by stomach acid eroding the esophageal lining. Nexium is used to address GERD and its symptoms, including heartburn and others. Symptoms of acid reflux typically consist of frequent heartburn for two or more days a week, even with dietary changes and treatment. The medication is also approved for use in children and adolescents aged 1 to 17 years. However, there is no evidence supporting the effectiveness and safety of Nexium in infants under 1 year old.
Each dose of Nexium should be taken with a full glass of water. For patients with GERD related to healing erosive esophagitis, a daily dose of 20mg or 40mg should be taken for 4 to 8 weeks as directed. For maintenance of healed esophagitis, a daily dose of 20mg is recommended. The suggested treatment for symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disorder is 20mg daily for 4 weeks. Short-term treatments for pediatric patients aged 12 to 17 years typically involve administering 20mg or 40mg for up to 8 weeks, while children aged 1 to 11 years may receive a daily dose of 10mg for 8 weeks. The capsule's contents can be taken out and swallowed whole without chewing, or it can be given through a nasogastric feeding tube.
If you have an allergy to Nexium, you may encounter symptoms such as swelling in the throat, lips, tongue, and face; breathing difficulties; and hives.