Drug
Esomeprazole
Pronounced
"ess-oh-MEH-pruh-zole"
Uses
Esomeprazole is used to treat certain stomach and esophagus problems (such as acid reflux, ulcers). It works by decreasing the amount of acid your stomach makes. It relieves symptoms such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and cough. This medication helps heal acid damage to the stomach and esophagus, helps prevent ulcers, and may help prevent cancer of the esophagus. Esomeprazole belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist before you start taking esomeprazole and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once daily, at least 1 hour before a meal. This medication may also be given through a tube into the stomach (nasogastric or gastric tube). The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Children's dosage may be based on weight.
If you are taking the 2.5-milligram-strength or 5-milligram-strength packets by mouth, empty the contents of a packet into a container with 1 teaspoon (5 milliliters) of water. Stir the mixture well and leave it for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken. Stir again and drink all of the mixture within 30 minutes. If any medication remains in the container, add more water, stir, and drink right away to make sure you take the entire dose.
If you are taking any other strength of this medication, empty the contents of a packet into a container with 1 tablespoon (half an ounce or 15 milliliters) of water. Stir the mixture well and leave it for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken. Stir again and drink all of the mixture within 30 minutes. If any medication remains in the container, add more water, stir, and drink right away to make sure you take the entire dose.
Do not crush or chew the medication granules. Doing so may destroy the drug.
If you are giving this medication through a nasogastric or gastric tube, ask your health care professional for detailed instructions on how to properly mix and give it.
If needed, antacids may be taken along with this medication. If you are also taking sucralfate, take esomeprazole at least 30 minutes before sucralfate.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Continue to take this medication for the prescribed length of treatment even if you are feeling better.
Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse. The risk of side effects goes up over time. Ask your doctor how long you should take this medication.