Requires Prescription: Yes

Generics: Esomeprazole

Used For: Acidity & Ulcers

How It Works: Esomeprazole inhibits the proton pump (H+/K+ ATPase) in the stomach’s parietal cells. This action significantly reduces the secretion of hydrochloric acid, thereby decreasing stomach acidity and altering gastric pH.

Usage and Safety

Dosage: Follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider.

Side Effects: Common side effects include headache, gastrointestinal upset, skin reactions, and dry mouth. Rare side effects may include angioedema, anaphylaxis, and fundic gland polyps.

Drug Interactions: Can interact with:

Phenytoin

Warfarin

Clopidogrel

Ketoconazole

Itraconazole

Voriconazole

Diazepam

Citalopram

Imipramine

Clomipramine

CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers

Tacrolimus

Digoxin

Erlotinib

Methotrexate

Indications: Treatment for heartburn, GERD, gastritis, and ulcers.

When Not to Use: Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Hypersensitivity reactions such as angioedema, anaphylaxis, bronchospasm, acute interstitial nephritis, and urticaria have been reported.

Precautions

Long-Term Use: Extended daily use (e.g., beyond 3 years) may lead to malabsorption or deficiency of vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin).

Warnings

Hypomagnesemia: Rarely reported with prolonged PPI use.

Osteoporosis-Related Fractures: Long-term or high-dose PPI therapy may increase the risk of fractures in the hip, wrist, or spine.

Clopidogrel Interaction: Avoid using Esomeprazole concurrently with clopidogrel.

Additional Information

Pregnancy Category: Consult your physician before use if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Storage: Store at room temperature, away from direct light and heat.