What Does Nexium Do?

Nexium, also known under the generic name esomeprazole, is the "little purple pill" prescribed to treat various medical conditions caused by excess stomach acid. Over time, Nexium can relieve the pain of heartburn and heal the damage caused by erosive esphagitis.

• The Little Purple Pill

Acid Reflux Disease

• Just about everyone has occasional heartburn. But if it's chronic, it could be the more serious condition acid reflux disease, in which the acid used by the stomach to digest food backs up into the esophagus. This not only causes a painful burning sensation but can damage the fragile lining of your esophagus over time.

How Nexium Helps

• Because the main problem is an excess of stomach acid, Nexium reduces the amount of acid produced by turning off some of the "pumps" in the acid-producing cells of the stomach. It leaves enough of these pumps on to allow food digestion but not enough to contribute to acid reflux. This reduces heartburn and prevents wayward stomach acid from eroding the lining of the esophagus.

Precautions

• Nexium can interact with other medications, so tell your doctor about all medications you're taking before starting on Nexium.
  Certain tests or a dosage adjustment may be necessary if you have or have ever had liver or heart disease.
  Do not crush, break or open the Nexium pill, as this is a slow-release medication. Swallowing the pill whole maximizes the effectiveness and safety of the drug.

Side Effects

• Some common side effects from Nexium are headaches, diarrhea, dry mouth, nausea, stomach pain and constipation.
  If you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling or difficulty breathing, call for medical help immediately.

Dosage

• Nexium is delivered either in the form of delayed-release capsules or powder for mixing in a drink. Depending upon the reason for the prescription, dosage ranges from 10 mg to 40 mg daily. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's very close to the time for your next dose. If you feel you have taken too much, call your doctor immediately.
  Treatment duration also varies depending on the ailment, ranging from four weeks to six months.