Some important information about Nexole (esomeprazole)
It may seem daunting to learn about medications like Nexole (esomeprazole), especially if you’re already taking other medicines daily. At Chemist2U, we provide some important information about the drug that you can discuss with your doctor, including its possible side effects and medicines not to take with it.
Learn more about Nexole (esomeprazole), how it’s used in the management of conditions like reflux oesophagitis and GORD, and how you can have it home-delivered through Chemist2U.
How does Nexole (esomeprazole) work?
Nexole (esomeprazole) is a type of medication known as a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).[1] It works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach. Esomeprazole is commonly used to treat conditions such as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD; also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD), ulcers in the stomach and intestines, and conditions associated with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.[2]
It may also be used in combination with antibiotics to treat certain types of ulcers caused by bacterial infections or to prevent stomach ulcers caused by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).[3]
Nexole (esomeprazole) requires a prescription.[4] Esomeprazole may also be available under the brand names Nexium and Esopreze. Talk to your doctor about whether this medication is suitable for your condition.
How do you take Nexole (esomeprazole)?
Nexole (esomeprazole) is typically taken once a day, at least one hour before a meal, or as prescribed by your doctor.[5] Take esomeprazole at the same time each day to maintain an even level of medication in your body for the course of your treatment.
The drug comes in capsule, tablet, or tablet form that can be swallowed whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break them. This is important to ensure the medication is released into your body correctly.
Even if your symptoms get better before you finish your medication, continue taking Nexole (esomeprazole) for the full period that your doctor has prescribed.[6] If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember to do so unless it’s almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding how to take the drug, especially any specific advice related to your condition and treatment plan.
Who can take Nexole (esomeprazole)?
Nexole (esomeprazole) may be prescribed for adults. Children should only take esomeprazole strictly on their doctor’s advice and with a medical prescription.[7] Additionally, a higher dose may not be suitable for people of a certain age or with certain medical conditions.[8]
The drug may be taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding only if needed and under strict supervision from your doctor. Potential risks should be thoroughly discussed with a doctor.
Additionally, if you have certain medical conditions, such as severe liver disease, then you may need adjusted doses or may not be able to take the drug entirely. It’s important to disclose your full medical history to your doctor in these situations.
Side effects of Nexole (esomeprazole)
Taking Nexole (esomeprazole) may lead to some side effects. Among the common side effects of Nexole (esomeprazole) are headaches, feelings of nausea, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, and flatulence. These side effects have been observed in about 1 out of every 100 people who take the drug.[9]
Serious side effects are less common but may still occur.[10] Should you experience these side effects, seek immediate medical attention.
- Blurred vision
- Mood changes, confusion, or depression
- Increased bruising
- Hair loss
- Tremor
- Blood in urine
- Liver problems (such as yellowing of skin or whites of eyes, feeling unwell, and loss of appetite)
- Severe allergic reactions (such as trouble breathing, chest tightness, itching, paleness or redness of the body)
These are only a few of the possible side effects you may experience when taking Nexole (esomeprazole). If you find yourself reacting to the drug unexpectedly, consult your doctor right away.
Nexole (esomeprazole) and other medications
Inform your doctor if you are taking any other prescription medications, such as Motilium (domperidone), herbal supplements, or over-the-counter medications. Consult a doctor if you are taking the following medications, as Nexole (esomeprazole) may interfere with them:[11]
- Warfarin and Clopidogrel. Taking Nexole (esomeprazole) with these drugs, which are used to prevent blood clots, may require close monitoring by your doctor, especially following a heart attack or stroke.
- Methotrexate. This drug is used to treat arthritis and certain types of cancer. High doses of methotrexate, when combined with Nexole (esomeprazole), may lead to increased levels of chemical toxicity in the bloodstream.
- Antifungal drugs and antibiotics. Nexole (esomeprazole) may interact with certain antifungals and antibiotics, potentially affecting how well these medications work.
The following are only a few medications you should be mindful of taking with Nexole (esomeprazole). Always seek the advice of your doctor before taking these medications.
Medicines you should not use with Nexole (esomeprazole)
Nexole (esomeprazole) should not be taken with the following medications:[12]
- Atazanavir and Nelfinavir. Nexole (esomeprazole) may reduce the effectiveness of certain HIV medications.[13]
- Cilostazol. This medicine is used to treat leg pain caused by a blood circulation disease. Inform your doctor immediately if you are taking this medicine and have been prescribed Nexole (esomeprazole).
A more comprehensive list of medications to avoid can be found in your drug information pamphlet. If one is not immediately available to you, please consult with your doctor.
How to order Nexole (esomeprazole) through Chemist2U
Chemist2U is committed to making medication easy with our convenient online pharmacy delivery service.
To order home delivery of Nexole online, download our app or use this website. From there, you may upload your eScript. You can also shop for over-the-counter medication and general pharmacy products, just like you would at a physical pharmacy.
A trusted local pharmacist from a partner pharmacy will then dispense your medication and prepare it for medication delivery. A dedicated courier will pick up your prescription and have it delivered to your doorstep.
Same-day delivery is available with the majority of medications; simply ensure that you place your order before the cutoff time, which is typically 2.00 p.m. but may vary in some locations. Note: A minority of products (inc. Ozempic and Mounjaro) are delivered via AusPost. Allow 5 to 7 business days.
Have your digestive disorder medication home-delivered by Chemist2U today!
References
[1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12132559/
[2] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19210109/
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17472543/
[4] https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines/brand/amt,704021000168106/nexole
[5] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/esomeprazole/how-and-when-to-take-esomeprazole/
[6] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12093317/
[7] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/esomeprazole/who-can-and-cannot-take-esomeprazole/
[8] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33555324/
[9] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/esomeprazole/side-effects-of-esomeprazole/
[10] https://www.ebs.tga.gov.au/ebs/picmi/picmirepository.nsf/pdf?OpenAgent&id=CP-2023-CMI-02204-1&d=20240227172310101
[11] https://www.ebs.tga.gov.au/ebs/picmi/picmirepository.nsf/pdf?OpenAgent&id=CP-2023-CMI-02204-1&d=20240227172310101
[12] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/e5bd2081-3ce7-4e95-9e3c-a7b600967a45.pdf
[13] https://www.nps.org.au/assets/medicines/e5bd2081-3ce7-4e95-9e3c-a7b600967a45.pdf
