Esomeprazole

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Esomeprazole: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Esomeprazole?

Esomeprazole is a potent proton pump inhibitor. It prevents the secretion of hydrochloric acid from the stomach cells and thus helps balance the gastric pH.
The chemical structure of Esomeprazole closely resembles that of Omeprazole. Like all other proton pump inhibitors, Esomeprazole is effective in treating GERD, painkiller-induced ulcers, Zellinger Ellison syndrome, and duodenal ulcers.

What are the uses of Esomeprazole?

Esomeprazole is a prescription and over-the-counter medicine. It is effective in the treatment and management of stomach ulcers and other gastric conditions.

Some common uses and benefits:

Treatment and management of Erosive Esophagitis: Usually, a 4-8 week course of Esomeprazole is beneficial to treat Erosive Esophagitis. The course can be extended up to 6-months for active management of the disease.
Symptomatic Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Esomeprazole effectively manages the symptoms of GERD like heartburn and ulcerations.
Prevention of ulceration by painkillers: Prolonged use of specific painkillers called NSAIDs can cause gastric ulceration. Esomeprazole is found to be effective in the prevention and treatment of NSAIDs induced gastric ulcers.
Zollinger Ellison syndrome: Zollinger Ellison syndrome is a hypersecretory condition. The condition leads to the overproduction of gastric acids. Intermittent courses of Esomeprazole effectively manage the disease.
Treatment and maintenance of Duodenal ulcers: Esomeprazole is effective in the treatment and management of duodenal ulcers.
Treatment of H. Pylori: The adjunctive treatment of antibiotics and Esomeprazole is effective in treating H. Pylori infection.

Frequently Asked Questions about Esomeprazole

No, you should not take Esomeprazole and Lansoprazole together. Esomeprazole may affect the action of Lansoprazole, reducing its efficacy. Studies show that Esomeprazole is more effective in treating erosive esophagitis and relieving the symptoms of gastric reflux. Consult your physician to understand which medicine is best for your condition. To know more, click here.

Yes, Esomeprazole is an antacid. It is an effective proton pump inhibitor and closely resembles Omeprazole in action.

No, Esomeprazole should not be consumed with food. The effects are best when taken with water on an empty stomach at least 45-60 minutes before a meal. If taken with food, the effectiveness of Esomeprazole is reduced.

Yes, Esomeprazole and Nexium are the same. Esomeprazole is sold under the brand name Nexium.

Yes, Esomeprazole is more effective than Pantoprazole. It is found to be more helpful in subsiding the symptoms of gastric reflux like heartburn.

Esomeprazole is most beneficial when prescribed for a 4-8 week course. For management of gastric or duodenal ulcers, your physician may prescribe it for up to 6 months. Consult your physician in case you plan to take the medicine for longer than 6 months. To know more, click here.

According to a recent study conducted in Hong Kong, long-term use of Esomeprazole or other proton pump inhibitors for more than 3 years can increase the risk of developing stomach cancer by a negligent degree. The actual risk of developing stomach cancer is rare.

Yes, long-term use of Esomeprazole may lead to kidney damage. Also, if Esomeprazole is taken with other medicines like Tacrolimus, it may increase blood pressure and damage kidneys.

Esomeprazole is most effective when taken on an empty stomach. To obtain the maximum benefit of the medicine, take on an empty stomach with a glass full of water and not take your meal for at least 45-60 minutes.

Esomeprazole is stronger than Omeprazole. Esomeprazole is the fastest-acting proton pump inhibitor of its class. It is better able to manage gastric reflux disease symptoms and is more helpful in managing gastric pH.
To know more about Esomeprazole or any other medical query, consult the topmost specialists from India's most trusted healthcare group, “Yashoda Hospitals”. Click here.