Esomeprazole is used to treat acid reflux, which is when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus causing heartburn, ulcers, which are sores in the stomach lining, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, which is a condition where the stomach produces too much acid.
Esomeprazole works by blocking the proton pump, which is a part of the stomach lining that produces acid. This action reduces stomach acid production, helping to relieve symptoms like heartburn and allowing the esophagus to heal.
The usual starting dose for adults is 20 mg to 40 mg once daily, taken at least one hour before meals. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water, not crushed or chewed.
Common side effects of esomeprazole include headache, which is pain in the head, diarrhea, which is loose or watery stools, nausea, which is the feeling of wanting to vomit, and abdominal pain, which is discomfort in the stomach area.
Do not take esomeprazole if allergic to it. It can interact with medications like clopidogrel, which prevents blood clots. Long-term use may lead to low magnesium levels, which can cause muscle spasms or irregular heartbeat. Consult your doctor if you have liver problems.
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Proton Pump Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Drug Ingredient
esomeprazole
Summary
Esomeprazole is used to treat acid reflux, which is when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus causing heartburn, ulcers, which are sores in the stomach lining, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, which is a condition where the stomach produces too much acid.
Esomeprazole works by blocking the proton pump, which is a part of the stomach lining that produces acid. This action reduces stomach acid production, helping to relieve symptoms like heartburn and allowing the esophagus to heal.
The usual starting dose for adults is 20 mg to 40 mg once daily, taken at least one hour before meals. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water, not crushed or chewed.
Common side effects of esomeprazole include headache, which is pain in the head, diarrhea, which is loose or watery stools, nausea, which is the feeling of wanting to vomit, and abdominal pain, which is discomfort in the stomach area.
Do not take esomeprazole if allergic to it. It can interact with medications like clopidogrel, which prevents blood clots. Long-term use may lead to low magnesium levels, which can cause muscle spasms or irregular heartbeat. Consult your doctor if you have liver problems.