All You Need To Know About Esomeprazole
Esomeprazole (also known as Nexium) is a proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) drug that's used to treat gastroesophageal and reflux diseases (GERD), stomach Ulcers and duodenal ulcers and erosive esophagitis. Esomeprazole is prescribed for the treatment of stomach ulcers due to infection by Helicobacter pylori bacteria. It can also be used in conjunction with long-term nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs) to lower the chance of developing gastric cancer.
What uses can you make of Esomeprazole
Esomeprazole has been approved to treat acid-related conditions such as GERD and erosive esophagitis. It can also be used for prevention and treatment of stomach ulcers due to H. pylori and NSAIDs. Esomeprazole has been shown to reduce acid reflux symptoms, reduce the likelihood of gastric ulcers recurring, and heal esophagitis. It has also been shown to treat GERD-related asthma, cough and laryngitis.
Esomeprazole's main applications include:
- Acid-related conditions such as GERD and erosive esophagitis. Treatment of stomach, duodenal, and stomach ulcers
- Prevention of the recurrence gastric ulcers due to H. pylori and NSAIDs
- Reduce acid reflux symptoms, heal esophagitis and reduce the chance of gastric ulcer recurrence
- Treatment of GERD-related asthma, cough and laryngitis
Esomeprazole's Purported Benefits
Esomeprazole's benefits are well-documented in clinical studies and trials. Esomeprazole proved to be more effective than placebo at relieving symptoms of GERD, according to a 2011 American Journal of Gastroenterology study . A 2013 study in Gut found that acid reflux symptoms were reduced by esomeprazole more than those caused by placebo. Studies have shown that esomeprazole may improve quality of life for patients suffering from GERD, as well as reduce the chance of bleeding.
Esomeprazole is claimed to have the following benefits:
- Heartburn relief and other symptoms of GERD
- Acid reflux symptoms can be reduced more efficiently than the placebo
- Patients with GERD can have a better quality of their lives.
- Lowering your risk of bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract
What Side Effects are there with Esomeprazole
Although Esomeprazole can be tolerated well, some side effects may occur. Side effects that are common include nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Side effects less common include itching and dizziness.
Rarely, side effects of esomeprazole may include liver damage and low levels magnesium in the blood. There is also an increased chance for fractures. If you have any side effects, it is important that you speak to your doctor immediately.
Side effects of esomeprazole are:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Pain in the abdomen
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Flatulence
- Dizziness
- Rash
- You are itching
- A decreased appetite
- Liver damage
- Magen levels in the blood are low
- Increased chance of breaking bones
Esomeprazole: Experts' and Professionals' Opinions
Experts and health professionals are unanimous in their belief that esomeprazole can be used safely and effectively to treat acid-related conditions such as GERD and erosive esophagitis. They cautioned against long-term PPI use due to side effects, and possible nutrient deficiency.
According to Dr. John I. Allen's 2013 New England Journal of Medicine article, "long-term" use of PPIs must be avoided. This is due to concerns over side effects and interactions. Long-term PPI usage is associated with a higher risk of nutritional deficiencies, especially vitamin B12 and calcium.
Esomeprazole: How do you get started?
Esomeprazole can be purchased in prescription and over-the-counter forms. To treat heartburn, the OTC version is typically taken for once per day for 14 days. If prescribed by a physician, it should be used for no more than 14 days and not taken more frequently than once every four months.
Esomeprazole prescriptions are usually prescribed to be taken before meals. You should take it exactly as directed by your doctor. Without your doctor's permission, do not increase the dose of this medication or use it more frequently than directed.
Based on your medical history and other symptoms, your doctor will recommend the right dosage and length of treatment. Follow your doctor's directions and use the prescribed medication exactly as directed.
Take Esomeprazole with full-sized glass of water. For maximum efficacy, it is recommended that you take Esomeprazole at least 30 minutes before you eat. Do not miss any doses. Take it back as soon as possible. You should not have two doses.
Conclusion
Esomeprazole, a PPI drug, is used to treat acid-related conditions such as GERD and erosive esophagitis. Although it is well-tolerated, some may experience side effects. Experts and health professionals all agree that esomeprazole can be an effective, safe and reliable treatment for acid-related diseases. However, it is not recommended for long-term use because of the possibility for side effects or the potential risk for nutrient deficiencies.
Talk to your doctor if you're considering taking esomeprazole. They can help determine the right dosage and treatment duration. Follow your doctor's directions and take medication as directed. Esomeprazole is an effective medication for treating acid-related conditions if used correctly and monitored.