Description
What is Esomeprazole?
Esomeprazole is a medication that is often referred to as a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI). PPIs work by reducing the amount of acid that is produced in the stomach and alleviating the symptoms associated with this. It is used for conditions such as heartburn and acid reflux and is also used for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) which is a persistent form of acid reflux. In addition to acid reflux, Esomeprazole can be used to treat stomach ulcers. The medication comes in the form of capsules, tablets, granules and can also be taken as a liquid.
How to take Esomeprazole?
The best time to take esomeprazole is in the morning, where one tablet can be taken with or without food.
Swallow the tablets with a drink of water however if you have problems swallowing the whole tablet you can put them in your drink, ensuring it is dissolved/broken up and then drinking straight away.
Who can and can’t take Esomeprazole?
This product is suitable for adults and should only be given to children if their doctor has prescribed this.
Please note that is this medication is not suitable for everyone and you should consult your doctor if you have had any of the following:
- An allergic reaction to this product or any other medications in the past
- Liver problems
- A glucose, sucrose or lactose intolerance (where your body is unable to absorb these forms of sugar) as the capsules can contain small amounts of any of these sugars.
Dosage
For Heartburn and Acid Reflux- 20mg per day
For gastro-oesophageal reflux disease- 20mg to 40mg per day
For stomach ulcers- 20mg per day
Your doctor may recommend only taking esomeprazole when you have symptoms, and this means you may not need to take this each day.
When your symptoms have subsided, you can stop taking the medication, the time this will take can range from days to week.
Please note that esomeprazole is not suitable for everyone so consult your doctor first for the best option for your symptoms.