Uses of Esomeprazole

Esomeprazole is used to treat Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and heartburn. It also helps in treating stomach ulcers or upper part of the gut (intestine) that are infected with Helicobacter pylori bacteria and Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) medicines in adults and in adolescents above 12 years of age. It is also used to treat Zollinger-Ellison syndrome (too much acid produced in the stomach caused by a growth in the pancreas). It is used to prevent rebleeding following therapeutic endoscopic procedures done for acute bleeding stomach (gastric) or intestinal (duodenal) ulcers.

Therapeutic Category

Esomeprazole: Proton pump inhibitors

How Esomeprazole works

Esomeprazole works by suppressing gastric acid secretion by blocking certain gastric receptors at the secretory surface of gastric acid secreting cells. In this way, it blocks the final step of gastric acid secretion. 

Common side effects of Esomeprazole

• headache
• diarrhoea
• stomach pain
• constipation
• flatulence
• nausea, vomiting
• benign polyps in the stomach (masses of cells that form on the lining inside your stomach)

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience, any signs of allergic reactions (such as skin rash, swelling of the face, lips, mouth, or throat which can lead to difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• If you experience yellow skin, dark-coloured urine, and tiredness (liver problems)
• If you experience fever with a severely reduced general condition or fever with symptoms of a local infection such as pain in the neck, throat or mouth or difficulties in urinating
• If you experience problem in swallowing, stomach pain or indigestion, vomiting (food or blood), and pass black stools (blood-stained)

Health Tips for Esomeprazole

• Esomeprazole is most effective when taken on an empty stomach, usually about one hour before a meal
• Try to take esomeprazole at the same time each day to establish a routine and ensure its effectiveness
• Consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid foods and beverages that can trigger acid reflux or worsen ulcer symptoms, such as spicy foods, citrus, and carbonated drinks
• Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine as it may increase the risk of side effects