What is Nexium and what is it used for?
Nexium is a drug used to treat Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD), the more severe form of acid reflux. It contains esomeprazole as its active substance, a proton pump inhibitor drug that can used for acid-related conditions of the stomach and intestines.
What is Acid Reflux (GORD)?
Acid reflux is when acid finds its way back into the throat and mouth, causing a burning sensation. Usually, there is a barrier between the stomach and the oesophagus to prevent the acid from flowing back into the mouth, which is less effective in GORD.
How does it work?
The class of drugs to which esomeprazole belongs work to reduce the amount of acid that the stomach produces. In turn, this reduces the symptoms associated with escaped acid flowing into the throat like the burning feeling in the chest or throat that so often characterises the condition.
How should I take Nexium?
You should take one tablet in the morning with water before a meal. For the medication to work correctly, you should swallow the tablet whole and not break or chew it.
What is the different between Nexium and Esomeprazole?
Esomeprazole is the active ingredient in Nexium (the branded version) and also available as Generic Esomeprazole, but at a lower cost. Both medications are medically equivalent in efficacy and amount. All generic medications available in the UK have to demonstrate equivalency before they can be sold, and that they have the same effect in the body as the original brand. Generic medicines are as equally effective as the original.