Nexium (Esomeprazole Magnesium)

Nexium is a medicine called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It reduces the amount of acid in your stomach. Nexium is used in adults to treat heartburn and other symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), erosive esophagitis (inflammation and ulceration of the esophagus [the tube that connects your mouth and stomach]), and maintain healing of erosive esophagitis. Nexium is also used to reduce the risk of stomach ulcers in people on continuous therapy with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (such as ibuprofen or naproxen); for long-term treatment of conditions where the stomach makes too much acid, such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome; and with other medicines to eliminate the bacteria that often causes ulcers (known as Helicobacter pylori). In addition, Nexium is used to treat GERD in children and adolescents, and erosive esophagitis in infants and children. Nexium is available as capsules and an oral suspension.

Nexium can cause low magnesium levels in your body. Tell your doctor immediately if you have seizures, dizziness, abnormal or fast heartbeat, jitteriness, jerking movements or shaking, muscle weakness, spasms of your hands and feet, cramps or muscle aches, or spasm of your voice box. Tell your doctor if you experience any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction with Nexium (such as rash, face swelling, throat tightness, or difficulty breathing). People who are taking multiple daily doses of Nexium for a long period of time may have an increased risk of fractures of the hip, wrist, or spine.