|
HOME >>
Pharmaceuticals API List 1 >>
Esomeprazole Magnesium
>> Consumer Information
CONSUMER INFORMATION
Esomeprazole Magnesium
CAS number 161796-78-7
USES: Esomeprazole works by blocking acid production in the stomach.
This medication is known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It is used to
treat acid-related stomach and throat (esophagus) problems (e.g., acid
reflux or GERD, erosive esophagitis). Decreasing excess stomach acid can
help relieve symptoms such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, persistent
cough, and trouble sleeping. It can also prevent serious acid damage to your
digestive system (e.g., ulcers, cancer of the esophagus).
This medication may also be used in combination with antibiotics to treat
certain types of intestinal ulcers caused by bacterial infection.
HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your
pharmacist before you start using esomeprazole and each time you get a
refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth usually once daily at least 1 hour before a
meal, or as directed by your doctor.
Do not crush or chew the capsule(s). Swallow the capsule(s) whole. If you
have difficulty swallowing this medication whole, the capsule may be opened
and the contents sprinkled onto soft food (cold applesauce or yogurt), or
emptied into a small amount of water, orange juice, or apple juice and taken
as directed. Rinse the container with an additional small amount of liquid
and drink the contents to make sure the entire dose is taken. Do not chew
the food/medication mixture or prepare a supply in advance; this may destroy
the drug and/or increase side effects.
If needed, antacids may be taken along with this medication.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it.
Remember to use it at the same time each day. Continue to take this
medication for the prescribed length of treatment even if you are feeling
better. SIDE EFFECTS: Headache, diarrhea, nausea, gas, stomach pain,
constipation, or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or
worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor
immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: signs
of a lung infection called pneumonia (e.g., fever, cough, trouble
breathing).
Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side
effects occur: severe stomach/abdominal pain, persistent nausea, vomiting,
unusual tiredness, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin, signs of vitamin B-12
deficiency with long-term (over 3 years) treatment (e.g., unusual weakness,
sore tongue, numbness or tingling of the hands/feet).
A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate
medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction
include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking esomeprazole, tell your doctor or
pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to similar drugs (e.g.,
lansoprazole, omeprazole); or if you have any other allergies.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical
history, especially of: severe liver disease, other stomach problems (e.g.,
tumors).
Some symptoms may actually be signs of a more serious condition. Tell your
doctor immediately if you have: heartburn combined with
lightheadedness/sweating/dizziness, chest pain or shoulder/jaw pain
(especially with trouble breathing), pain spreading to arms/neck/shoulders,
unexplained weight loss.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy.
Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
Based on information for similar drugs, this medication may pass into breast
milk. Breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your
doctor before breast-feeding.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your
usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature (77 degrees F or 25 degrees C)
away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59-86 degrees F (15-30
degrees C) is permitted. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines
away from children
|