Nexium is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) used to treat heartburn, or gastroesophageal
reflux. Nexium may be used in combination with two antibiotics to treat
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and duodenal ulcers. Nexium may
also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
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Nexium ®
How NEXIUM ® Works
Each acid-producing cell contains millions of acid pumps. NEXIUM works
by decreasing the acid produced by these acid pumps. As you can see in
this drawing, NEXIUM turns off (deactivates) some of the pumps to keep
acid production under control. By reducing acid production in the stomach,
NEXIUM reduces the chance of acid backing up into the esophagus and causing
reflux symptoms.
How do I take NEXIUM ®?
Your healthcare professional will tell you how and when to take NEXIUM.
NEXIUM is available as a capsule, which comes in different dosage strengths.
Your healthcare professional will prescribe the dose that is right for
you.
Taking NEXIUM should be part of your usual routine so that you do not forget
to take it. NEXIUM capsules should be taken before meals and swallowed
whole (the capsules should never be chewed or crushed). If you have a hard
time swallowing capsules, you can empty a capsule into a tablespoon of
applesauce. The applesauce should be eaten right away and never stored
for later use. The pellets should not be chewed or crushed.
Do not use NEXIUM to treat any other medical conditions unless instructed
by your healthcare professional. Never share NEXIUM with anyone else -
it has been prescribed for you!
What should I do if I forget to take a dose of NEXIUM ®?
If you miss a dose, continue taking Nexium as directed and consult with
your healthcare professional.
Are there any side effects caused by NEXIUM ®?
NEXIUM can cause side effects. Some of these side effects are minor and
usually do not require you to stop taking the medicine. Others may be more
serious.
The most common side effects are:
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal Pains
Other serious stomach conditions may still exist. For a complete listing
of all the side effects that have been reported with the use of NEXIUM,
ask your healthcare professional to talk to you about the full important
product information about Nexium.
How should I store NEXIUM ®?
Keep NEXIUM out of the reach of children and always replace the bottle
cap after use. Leave NEXIUM in the original package and protect the medicine
from sunlight and moisture. Store NEXIUM at room temperature (between 59°F
and 86°F or between 15°C and 30°C).
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