Description
Common use
Nexium is a specific inhibitor of a proton pump (PPIs) of the parietal cells of the mucous layer of the stomach. It is a form of Prilosec (Omeprazole). It is accumulated and transformed into an active form in the secretory tubules where it inhibits the secretion of hydrochloric acid. Nexium is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, promote healing of erosive esophagitis, eradication of Helicobacter pylori together with antibiotics, preventive therapy of ulcers after treatment with anti-inflammatory non-steroid medications.
Dosage and directions
To treat GERD, 20 or 40 mg of Nexium is given once daily during 4-8 weeks. Treatment of conditions caused by H. pylori requires 40 mg of Nexium administered once daily in combination with amoxicillin and clarithromycin during 10 days. Take Nexium capsules one hour before a meal, do not chew or crush them, swallow them whole.
Precautions
Before to take Nexium notify your doctor if you have any liver or kidney diseases. If your condition requires treatment with Nexium and antibiotics follow all instructions of your doctor to achieve the best results. Do not stop taking this medication even if your symptoms improved as your illness may not be completely treated. If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or breastfeeding consults your physician about it before to take this medication.
Contraindications
In children younger than 12 y.o., hypersensitivity to Nexium or to any other benzimidazole medication such as mebendazole (Vermox) and albendazole (Albenza), and in patients treated with atazanavir.
Possible side effect
Together with signs of allergy like hives, swelling of throat and face, rash patients may experience headache, diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal pain, flatulence (gas), constipation, or dry mouth. Notify your doctor if you think that you took too much of this medication.
Drug interaction
Nexium increases blood levels of diazepam (Valium) by decreasing the elimination of diazepam in the liver. Nexium and other PPIs reduce the absorption and concentration in blood of ketoconazole (Nizoral) and increase the absorption and concentration in blood of digoxin (Lanoxin). Co-administration of Nexium with Clarithromycin increaes area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) of the first. Nexium may slow down the metabolism of such medications: citalopram, diazepam, clomipramine, phenytoin, imipramine. Consequently, their dose should be corrected.
Missed dose
If you missed a dose take it the soonest. If it is almost time of your next dose just skip it and return to your regular dosage schedule. Never double dose this medication to compensate for the missed dose.
Overdose
If overdose of Nexium was taken the following symptoms occur: confusion, headache, drowsiness, blurred vision, rapid heartbeat, nausea, xerostomia (dry mouth), sweating, flushing, shallow breathing or shortness of breath, tremor, coordination disorders, or seizure. If you suppose that took too much of the drug to inform your doctor about it as you may need immediate medical help.
Storage
Store at room temperature between 59-77 F (15-25 C) away from light and moisture, kids and pets.
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