How to Take Nexium

Stomach acid is no laughing matter. If stomach acid is released into other parts of your body it can cause major damage to your esophagus as well as ulcers in your stomach and intestines. Nexium, known as the Purple Pill, is used to decrease the amount of acid that your stomach produces, thereby preventing and treating erosive esophagitis, stomach and intestinal ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease and gastric ulcers caused by infections. Follow these steps to take Nexium.

Things You'll Need

• Prescription for Nexium

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Instructions

• 1

  Take Nexium exactly as prescribed. If you have any questions after reading the information that comes with your prescription, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

• 2

  Take Nexium for no more than four to eight weeks. If you need additional medication for treatment, your doctor should prescribe something else.

• 3

  Take Nexium with a full glass of water at least one hour before a meal. It is important not to eat right after taking Nexium.

• 4

  Swallow the Nexium delayed-release capsule whole. Do not crush, chew or open a it to avoid releasing too much of the medication at once. You may open the capsule and sprinkle the medication on a spoonful of soft food to make swallowing easier for you.

• 5

  Take Nexium on a regular basis to get the greatest benefit. Do not let your prescription run out. Get a refill before your prescription is completely gone.