Esomeprazole
Introduction To Esomeprazole
Esomeprazole is a medicine that reduces the amount of acid produced in your stomach. It is used for treating acid-related diseases of the stomach and intestine such as acid reflux, peptic ulcer disease, and some other stomach conditions associated with excessive acid production.
Esomeprazole is also used to prevent stress ulcers in seriously ill patients and is administered before anesthetic medication to help prevent aspiration- related complications. It belongs to a class of medicines known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). This medicine is administered into a vein by a healthcare professional and will only be given to you if your doctor thinks that an injection is more suitable for you at the moment than a tablet. The dose will depend on your underlying condition and how you respond to the medicine. Additionally, your doctor will decide the duration of treatment. You can increase the efficiency of the treatment by eating smaller meals more often and avoiding caffeinated drinks (like tea and coffee), and spicy or fatty foods.
The most common side effects observed with this medicine include nausea, headache, dizziness, flatulence, diarrhea, stomach pain, and injection site reactions. These symptoms are generally mild but if they bother you or do not go away, consult your doctor. Talk to your doctor about ways to prevent bone loss (osteoporosis), like taking calcium and vitamin D supplements.
Esomeprazole is not suitable for some people. Before taking this medicine, you need to tell your doctor if you have severe liver problems, are taking medicines for HIV, have ever had an allergic reaction to similar medicines in the past, or suffer from bone loss (osteoporosis). Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also consult their doctor before taking it. Avoid drinking alcohol as it makes your stomach produce excessive acid and can worsen your symptoms.
Uses of Esomeprazole
- Treatment of Gastroesophageal reflux disease (Acid reflux)
- Treatment of Peptic ulcer disease
Benefits of Esomeprazole
Treatment of Gastroesophageal reflux disease (Acid reflux)
GERD is a chronic (long-term) condition that is like having heartburn
consistently rather than just occasionally. It happens because a muscle above
your stomach relaxes too much and allows stomach contents to come back up into
your esophagus and mouth. Esomeprazole belongs to a group of medicines called
proton pump inhibitors. It reduces the amount of acid your stomach makes and
relieves the pain associated with heartburn and acid reflux. You should take
it exactly as it is prescribed for it to be effective.
Some simple lifestyle changes can help reduce the symptoms of GERD. Think about what foods trigger heartburn and try to avoid them; eat smaller more frequent meals; try to lose weight if you are overweight and try to find ways to relax. Do not eat within 3-4 hours of going to bed.
Treatment of Peptic ulcer disease
Esomeprazole belongs to a group of medicines called proton pump inhibitors. It
reduces the amount of acid your stomach makes which prevents further damage to
the ulcer as it heals naturally. You may be given other medicines along with
this medicine depending on what caused the ulcer. You need to keep taking the
medicine as it is prescribed for it to be effective, even if the symptoms seem
to disappear.
Side effects of Esomeprazole
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common side effects of Esoser
- Injection site reaction
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Dryness in mouth
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation
- Flatulence
- Diarrhea
How to use Esomeprazole
Your doctor or nurse will give you this medicine. Kindly do not self administer.
How Esomeprazole works
Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It works by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach which helps in relief of acid related indigestion and heartburn.
Quick tips
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It is given as an injection into a vein under the supervision of the doctor.
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It is a well-tolerated medicine and provides relief for a long time.
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Some healthy tips to prevent acidity from happening:
- Avoid excessive intake of carbonated beverages/soft drinks, citrus juices, fried food, caffeinated beverages like tea and coffee.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking.
- Avoid eating late at night or before bedtime.
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Inform your doctor if you get watery diarrhea, fever or stomach pain that does not go away.
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Long-term use of Esomeprazole can cause weak bones and a deficiency of minerals such as magnesium. Take adequate dietary intake of calcium and magnesium or their supplements as prescribed by your doctor.
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Consult your doctor right away if you develop decreased urination, edema (swelling due to fluid retention), lower back pain, nausea, fatigue, and rash or fever. These could be signs of a kidney problem.
Safety Advice
PregnancyCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Esomeprazole if I’m pregnant?
Esomeprazole may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Although there are limited studies in humans, animal studies have shown harmful effects on the developing baby. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and any potential risks before prescribing it to you. Please consult your doctor.
BreastfeedingCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I take Esomeprazole if I’m breastfeeding?
Esomeprazole is probably unsafe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug may pass into the breastmilk and harm the baby.
AlcoholCAUTION
Is drinking alcohol while taking Esomeprazole safe?
Caution is advised when consuming alcohol with Esomeprazole. Please consult your doctor.
DrivingCONSULT YOUR DOCTOR
Can I drive after taking Esomeprazole?
It is not known whether Esomeprazole alters the ability to drive. Do not drive if you experience any symptoms that affect your ability to concentrate and react.
KidneySAFE IF PRESCRIBED
Can I take Esomeprazole if I have/had kidney diseases?
Esomeprazole is safe to use in patients with kidney disease. No dose adjustment of Esomeprazole is recommended. However, inform your doctor if you have any kidney disease.
LiverCAUTION
Can I take Esomeprazole if I have/had liver diseases?
Esomeprazole should be used with caution in patients with severe liver disease. Dose adjustment of Esomeprazole may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is Esomeprazole safe to use?
Yes, Esomeprazole is relatively safe to use. Most of the people who take Esomeprazole do not get a side effect. It is advised to be taken as directed by the doctor for maximum benefit.
Q. Can Esomeprazole cause weight gain?
Weight gain is reported in less than 1% of the patients taking Esomeprazole but the exact cause is unknown. One possible explanation is higher food intake once the reflux symptoms are relieved. Lifestyle modifications such as proper diet and exercise can help to prevent weight gain.
Q. Can I take alcohol with Esomeprazole?
No, alcohol intake is not advised with Esomeprazole. Alcohol itself does not affect the working of Esomeprazole, but it can increase the acid production. This may further cause worsening of your symptoms
Q. Can I take antacids along with Esomeprazole?
Yes, you can take antacids along with Esomeprazole. Take it 2 hours before or after you take Esomeprazole.
Q. What dietary changes should I make to get relief from acidity?
Esomeprazole is best taken 1 hour before a meal. You should avoid spicy and fatty foods while taking this medicine. You must refrain from caffeinated drinks such as tea, coffee, and cola. Alcohol intake should also be avoided as it may worsen your symptoms.
Q. Are painkillers safe to take along with Esomeprazole?
Yes, it is safe to take painkillers along with Esomeprazole. Esomeprazole prevents acidity and stomach ulcers associated with the intake of painkillers. Esomeprazole is taken 1 hour before a meal. On the other hand, painkillers are usually taken with, or after a meal to avoid stomach upset.
References
Written By:
Dr Advikka Ridhy
MBBS
RMO, Aster MIMS
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