Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor. It acts by reducing the amount of acids produced in the stomach.
What is Esomeprazole?
Esomeprazole is used to treat the gastroesophageal reflux symptoms reflux and at the same time allow the esophageal tissue damaged by the reflux to heal, all the while avoiding further damage.
It is also used to reduce the risk of ulcers in those who take NSAIDs and in combination with other drugs, it is used to treat or prevent the recurrence of ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori.
Lastly, it may be used to treat conditions in which the stomach produces an excessive amount of acidic juices, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
How should Esomeprazole be taken?
Esomeprazole is taken orally in the form of capsules or tablets, prolonged release or granules. The capsules can be opened and the contents can be dissolved in water, to be further administered through a nasogastric tube. The granules can be administered via a feeding tube.
Esomeprazole should be taken 1 or 2 times a day. The extended-release forms must not be chewed, divided or crushed.
Side effects associated with Esomeprazole
The intake of proton pump inhibitors increases the risk of fractures of the wrist, hip or spine, especially if high doses are taken or if the treatment lasts for a year or more.
Possible side effects of esomeprazole include the following:
- Constipation
- Gas
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
It is important to contact a doctor immediately if taking esomeprazole triggers:
- Irregular heartbeat, fast or pounding
- Dizziness
- Convulsions
- Diarrhea with severe loose stools
- Difficulty breathing or difficulty swallowing
- Fever
- Swelling of the face, throat, lingia, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles or calves
- Stomach ache
- Urticaria
- Itching
- Rash
- Hoarseness
- Feeling light-headed
- Muscle spasms
- Extreme fatigue
- Uncontrollable tremors
- Blistering and peeling
Contraindications and warnings associated with the use of Esomeprazole
Before taking esomeprazole, it is important to inform your doctor:
- If you have any allergies to esomeprazole or its excipients, dexlansoprazole, lansoprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole, rabeprazole or any other drugs
- If you are taking any medicinal products, herbal remedies or supplements. Mentioning in particular: antibiotics, anticoagulants, cilostazol, clopidogrel, diazepam, digoxin, diuretics, iron supplements, medicines against HIV and methotrexate
- If you suffer (or have suffered) from magnesium deficiency or liver disease
- If you are pregnant or breastfeeding
