Severe Reactions to Nexium

Nexium is a medication used to treat symptoms of heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease and gastric ulcers. The brand name for the prescription drug esomeprazole, Nexium is categorized as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), a type of drug that reduces the production of stomach acid. Severe reactions are unlikely when used as directed.

Time Frame

• Nexium is intended for treatment lasting four to eight weeks, but a second prescription usually is issued if the condition has not been resolved. Your physician might decide that continued use of Nexium is important for health benefits and quality of life.

Common Side Effects

• The most frequently reported Nexium side effects are gastrointestinal, including constipation or diarrhea, gas, abdominal pain and nausea. Headaches also are relatively common.

Allergic Reaction

• Some people taking Nexium might develop an allergic reaction that calls for immediate medical attention. Signs include hives, difficulty breathing, and facial, mouth and throat swelling.

Diarrhea

• Taking Nexium increases the risk of developing diarrhea and colitis due to the Clostridium difficile bacteria. Because Nexium decreases stomach acid, bacteria can multiply in the gastrointestinal tract and cause infection and inflammation.

Age Considerations

• People over 50 who regularly use PPIs such as Nexium for more than one year might have a significantly increased risk of hip fracture, according to a study published in the December 27, 2006 issue of the "Journal of the American Medical Association" (JAMA).

Dosage Size

• Overdose symptoms are possible when taking much larger doses of Nexium than prescribed. These include blurred vision, confusion, drowsiness, headache, nausea, rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, tremors or seizures.