Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: ESOMEPRAZOLE - ORAL DELAYED RELEASE TABLET (ess-oh-MEH-pruh-zole)
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Esomeprazole works by blocking acid production in the stomach. This medication is known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It is used to treat acid-related stomach and throat (esophagus) problems (e.g., acid reflux or GERD, erosive esophagitis). This medication may also be used in combination with antibiotics to treat certain types of intestinal ulcers caused by bacterial infection.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth usually once daily, or as directed by your doctor. This medication may be taken with food or on an empty stomach. Do not crush or chew the tablet(s). Swallow the tablet(s) whole. If you have difficulty swallowing this medication whole, the tablet may be placed in a half glass (120 ml or 4 oz) of non-carbonated water. Stir until the tablet(s) dissolve and the pellets are released from the tablet(s). Drink the mixture immediately (or within 30 minutes). Rinse the glass with an additional half glass of water and drink the contents to make sure the entire dose is taken. Do not chew the liquid/medication mixture or prepare a supply in advance; this may destroy the drug and/or increase side effects. If needed, antacids may be taken along with this medication. The dosage and length of treatment is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. Continue to take this medication for the prescribed length of treatment even if you are feeling better. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.
SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, diarrhea, nausea, gas, stomach pain, constipation, or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: chest pain, severe stomach/abdominal pain, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, black stools, signs of vitamin B-12 deficiency with long-term (over 3 years) treatment (e.g., unusual weakness, sore tongue, numbness or tingling of the hands/feet). A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD, Heartburn) - Learn about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD, acid reflux, heartburn) symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, and nausea. Causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention information is also included.
- pantoprazole, Protonix - Explains the medication pantoprazole (Protonix), a drug used for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), like other PPI's it also is used for treating ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, and the Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome.
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