Drug Uses

Nexium functions by reducing the amount of acid production in the stomach and thereby greatly reduces the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus. Nexium is also used in curing extensive damage condition caused by reflux disease.

Usage

Following the dosage instructions of your doctor is the best way to use any medication. If you are unsure or do not remember the instructions then you may read the medicine label for more detailed information.

You should take Nexium one hour before a meal.

Please drink a full glass of water with Nexium.

It is very important that you complete the dosage schedule and do not interrupt it in between without seeking prior consultation from your doctor.

Taking your medication at the same time each day is a tried and tested method to avoid missing any doses.

Missed Dose

Despite your best attempts at remembering, if you still miss out on a dose, then take it as soon as you remember about it. But keep in mind that you will have to adjust your next dose by spacing it out by 4 to 5 hours. If this is not possible, then the best thing to do would be to skip the missed dose and continue with your normal dosage schedule.

Never try to compensate for the missed dose by taking a double dose together. It may cause adverse effects.

Storage

Store Nexium at room temperature (read medicine label if unsure). Always keep it in a cool dark place that is not directly exposed to sources of heat or moisture and sunlight. Protect it from kids and pets.

Overdose

An overdose of Nexium may have adverse effects like Confusion, drowsiness, dry mouth, blurred vision, headache, nausea and sweating that require immediate medical attention. Contact the nearest emergency poison control center immediately if you notice any side effects.

Warning/Precautions

Doctors advise against using Nexium if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or if you are taking an HIV protease inhibitor (e.g., atazanavir).

Discuss your past/current medical history in detail with your doctor before beginning treatment with any new medication. If you are using any herbal supplements or over the counter medication, including vitamin pills, then mention it to your doctor.

You should consult your doctor immediately if you are suffering from conditions like a bleeding ulcer, such as black, tarry stools or vomit that looks like coffee grounds; or if you experience throat pain, chest pain, severe stomach pain, or trouble swallowing.

Nexium may increase the risk of getting dizziness or drowsiness. This risk greatly increases if you combine it with alcoholic beverages. So please avoid them while using Nexium. Also, avoid undertaking any tasks which require mental alertness (driving, handling heavy machinery etc).

Doctors may prescribe certain laboratory tests like to determine how you have responded to treatment and to gauge the severity of the side effects of Nexium. Please Keep all lab appointments and do not miss any tests.

Please inform your lab technician or surgeon that you are taking Nexium before you undergo any emergency surgical procedure including dental operations.

Extreme caution should be exercised before using Nexium in Asian patients. The side effect of Nexium may be more pronounced in Asian patients.

The safety and effectiveness of Nexium for children has not been ascertained and therefore should be used with care for children.

If you are expecting a child or are planning to have a child in the near future, then consult your doctor before using Nexium to discuss any possible threats to the unborn baby.

If you are a nursing mother and breast feed your baby, then too, seek consultation before using Nexium as some drugs are excreted in the breast milk and may enter the baby.