Nexium is used to treat stomach acid and esophagus conditions including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Nexium is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) containing esomeprazole which works by decreasing the amount of acid produced by your stomach in order to relieve symptoms including difficulty swallowing, persistent cough and heartburn.

Always read the medication information and instructions before using this medication.
Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Take esomeprazole with a full glass of water an hour before a meal.
• Swallow Nexium tablets whole without crushing or chewing. If you cannot swallow this medication whole, sprinkle the contents onto a spoonful of applesauce or pudding and eat immediately.
• Take the full prescription of Nexium even if your symptoms improve beforehand.
• Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

Make sure to tell your doctor:

• If you have any drug or other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history especially of liver disease, osteoporosis, autoimmune disease, systemic lupus, or low levels of magnesium in your blood.
• If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy.
• If you are breast-feeding.

Other information you should also know:

• People who take Nexium more than once a day or for an extended period of time may be more likely to break a bone.
• Esomeprazole can affect medical test results. Make sure any doctor that treats you is aware you take this medication.

Common side effects of Nexium:

• Headaches.
• Abdominal pain.

If you have any of the following esomeprazole side effects, seek medical help:

• Persistent diarrhea. If this occurs, do not take anti-diarrhea or opioid medications to treat it.
• Fever.
• Abdominal pain or cramping.
• Blood or mucus in your stool.
• Signs of a vitamin B-12 deficiency such as weakness, sore tongue or numbness in the hands or feet. The risk of this is increased if you have been taking esomeprazole or other proton pump inhibitor for 3 years or longer.
• Signs of lupus such as a rash on the cheeks or nose or worsening joint pain.
• Low magnesium level symptoms including seizures, persistent muscle spasms or an irregular, slow or fast heartbeat.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction including difficulty breathing, hives or swelling in your face, lips or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Nexium?

If you miss a dose of Nexium, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose.

Can Nexium cause bone fractures?

People who take Nexium more than once a day or for an extended period of time may be more likely to break a bone.