Esomeprazole Magnesium
Generic Name:
Esomeprazole magnesium
Brand Names:
Esomeprazole Magnesium Description:
Esomeprazole magnesium belongs to a class of medications known as proton pump inhibitors and is used in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other conditions caused by excessive stomach acid. Esomeprazole magnesium works by blocking proton pumps in stomach cells that play a key role in acid production.
Esomeprazole Magnesium Side Effects:
Common side effects of esomeprazole magnesium include:
For more information, see our esomeprazole magnesium side effects page.
Esomeprazole Magnesium Uses:
Esomeprazole magnesium is used in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a chronic condition in which stomach acid flows upward and damages the lining of the esophagus. Patients with GERD experience frequent heartburn.
Esomeprazole magnesium is used to reduce the risk of gastric ulcers in patients undergoing extensive treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Esomeprazole magnesium is used in conjunction with the antibiotics amoxicillin and clarithromycin in the treatment of stomach infections caused by Helicobacter pylori.
Esomeprazole magnesium is also used in the long-term treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions such as Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome. Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome is a rare condition characterized by excessive acid production in the stomach.
Esomeprazole magnesium should not be used in children under the age of one.
Esomeprazole Magnesium Interactions:
The following medications may interact with esomeprazole magnesium:
- Atazanavir (Reyataz)
- Nelfinavir (Viracept)
- Saquinavir (Fortovase)
- Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
- Voriconazole (Vfend)
- Iron products
- Digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps)
- Warfarin (Coumadin) and other anticoagulants
- Antifungal medications
Esomeprazole magnesium may interact with other medications that are not listed above. Patients should talk with their doctor about the use of all other medications, vitamins or supplements before beginning treatment with esomeprazole magnesium.
Esomeprazole Magnesium Dosage Information:
Typical Dosage Recommendations
Esomeprazole magnesium dosages may vary among patients. Your doctor will establish the size and frequency of your dosage according to your individual needs. Patients should take esomeprazole magnesium exactly as prescribed by their doctor.
Patients aged 12 and above using esomeprazole magnesium for the treatment of GERD usually take 20 to 40 mg of the medication a day for up to eight weeks. Pediatric patients using esomeprazole magnesium for the treatment of GERD generally take 10 to 20 mg a day for up to eight weeks.
Patients using esomeprazole magnesium to reduce the risk of NSAID-associated gastric ulcers typically take 20 to 40 mg of the medication a day for up to six months.
Patients using esomeprazole magnesium in conjunction with amoxicillin and clarithromycin usually take 40 mg of the medication a day for 10 days.
Patients using esomeprazole magnesium for the treatment of pathological hypersecretory conditions usually take a daily dosage of 80 mg.
Patients taking esomeprazole magnesium in capsule form should take the medication on an empty stomach at least one hour prior to a meal.
Missing a Dose of Esomeprazole Magnesium
If you forget to take a dose of esomeprazole magnesium, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosage schedule. Do not consume a double dose of this medication to compensate for a missed dose.
Esomeprazole Magnesium Overdose
Symptoms of an esomeprazole magnesium overdose may include confusion, drowsiness, blurred vision, increased heartbeat, nausea, sweating, reduced coordination, breathing changes and seizures. Seek immediate medical attention if you have taken too much of this medication.
Esomeprazole Magnesium FDA Approval:
February 20, 2001
Esomeprazole Magnesium Recall/Black Box Warning Information:
Esomeprazole magnesium does not carry any black box warnings.
Recalls
In 2009, Advantage Dose LLC recalled certain lots of Nexium 40 mg capsules, due to the fact that the medications were not in conformance with the Good Manufacturing Practice Regulations established by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
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September 9, 2010, 3:38 pm
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September 8, 2010, 3:39 pm
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September 7, 2010, 9:59 am
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September 2, 2010, 12:51 pm
