Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor , a protein which is located in the cell membrane. It works by reducing the amount of acids produced by the stomach.
What is Esomeprazole used for?
Esomeprazole is used to treat the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux and, at the same time, allow reflux-damaged esophagus tissues to heal, avoiding further damage.
It is also used to reduce the risk of ulcer in those who take NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and, in combination with other drugs, to treat or prevent the reappearance of ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori .
Finally, it can be used to treat cases in which the stomach produces an excessive amount of acidic juices, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
How is Esomeprazole taken?
Esomeprazole is taken orally in the form of capsules or tablets, including prolonged-release tablets, or granules. The capsules can be opened and the content can be administered, dissolved in water, through a nasogastric tube. The granulate can also be administered by tube.
It can be taken 1 or 2 times a day . Prolonged-release medications should neither be chewed nor divided or crumbled.
Side effects of Esomeprazole
Taking proton pump inhibitors increases the risk of wrist, hip or spine fractures , especially if high doses are used or if the treatment lasts for a year or more.
Possible side effects of Esomeprazole include:
- constipation;
- gas;
- headaches ;
- nausea ;
- dry mouth.
It is important to contact a doctor immediately if Esomeprazole is combined with:
- irregular, fast or heavy heart beat;
- dizziness ;
- convulsions;
- severe diarrhea with loose stools;
- difficulty breathing or difficulty swallowing;
- temperature;
- swelling of the face, throat, lingia, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles or calves;
- stomach ache;
- urticaria ;
- itching ;
- rash;
- hoarseness;
- light-headed feeling;
- muscle spasms ;
- excessive tiredness;
- uncontrollable tremors;
- blisters and flaking.
Contraindications and warnings on the use of Esomeprazole
Before taking Esomeprazole it is good to inform your doctor:
- of allergies all’Esomeprazolo, its excipients, to dexlansoprazole with lansoprazole, omeprazole, to Pantoprazole, Rabeprazole or to other drugs;
- medicines, phytotherapy or supplements taken, citing in particular antibiotics, anticoagulants, Cilostazol, Clopidogrel, Diazepam, diuretic drugs, iron supplements, drugs against HIV and methotrexate;
- if you suffer (or have suffered) from magnesium deficiencies or liver disease ;
- a possible pregnancy or if you are breast-feeding .
