|  | Conditions Treatments | Digestive Health

Side Effects of Nexium

Nexium is used to treat heartburn from acid reflux, as well as to heal the lining of your esophagus that may become eroded. There are side effects from taking Nexium as with any medication. In addition, there may be interactions with other medications you are taking that cause additional side effects. If any of the side effects concern you or become bothersome you should consult your doctor.

  1. Headache

    • Headache is one of three of the most commonly occurring side effects. According to purplepill.com, as many as five and a half percent of people taking Nexium experienced headaches as a side effect. While headaches can be caused by many things, if it occurs after taking your medication, you should consult your doctor.

    Diarrhea

    • Patients taking Nexium are at a higher risk of getting Clostridium difficile, a severe diarrhea and inflammation of the intestines that can become very serious, according to an Associated Press article on msnbc.msn.com. If you have severe diarrhea you should see your physician for a diagnosis.

    Abdominal Pain

    • Abdominal pain is one of the three most common side effects from taking Nexium.

    Other Side Effects

    • Other, less common side effects include excessive gas, dry mouth, skin inflammation and rash, dizziness, insomnia, sleepiness, swelling of the legs and ankles, muscle and joint pain, hair loss, blurred vision, depression and confusion. You should be monitored carefully by your doctor while taking Nexium if you have decreased liver or kidney function.

    Drug Interactions

    • You may have adverse reactions if you take Nexium in conjunction with Citalopram, Clomipramine, Diazepam, Digoxin, Warfarin, Imipramine, Phentyoin, Itraconazole, Ketoconazole, Clarithromycin or Voricnazole. Be sure to inform your physician of all medications you are currently taking.

    Warning

    • Serious reactions have been reported when patients have taken Nexium while on penicillin, according to rxlist.com. This can cause an anaphylactic (hypersensitivity) reaction which requires emergency care.

Digestive Health - Related Articles