Esomeprazole

How is Esomeprazole dosed?

The dosing information for esomeprazole is as follows:

• To prevent NSAID-associated gastric ulcer:

  • Adults: 20 or 40 milligrams (mg) once a day for up to 6 months. Your doctor may adjust your dose if needed.
  • Children: Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

• To treat duodenal ulcers with H. pylori infection:

  • Adults: 40 milligrams (mg) once a day for 4 to 8 weeks, in combination with other medications to treat the infection.

• To treat gastric ulcers:

  • Adults: 40 milligrams (mg) once a day for 4 to 8 weeks.

• To treat erosive esophagitis:

  • Adults: 20 or 40 milligrams (mg) once a day for 4 to 8 weeks.

• To treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD):

  • Adults: 20 or 40 milligrams (mg) once a day for up to 8 weeks.

• To treat Zollinger-Ellison syndrome:

  • Adults: 20 to 120 milligrams (mg) a day, divided into 2 or 3 doses. The dosage may be adjusted as needed.

It's essential to follow your doctor's instructions regarding dosing, as it may vary based on your specific medical condition, age, and other factors.

What is the dosage form of Esomeprazole?

The dosage forms of esomeprazole include:

1. Capsule, Delayed Release
2. Packet
3. Tablet, Delayed Release

What medications are contraindication with Esomeprazole?

Esomeprazole should not be used with medicines containing rilpivirine (Edurant, Complera). Using these medicines together may cause unwanted side effects. Please consult your doctor or healthcare professional before combining any medications.

How is Esomeprazole administered?

Esomeprazole is available in several dosage forms, including capsule, delayed release, packet, and tablet, delayed release. The oral route administration for esomeprazole involves swallowing the capsule whole, without crushing or chewing it. If the capsule cannot be swallowed, the contents can be sprinkled on one tablespoonful of applesauce and consumed immediately. For use with a nasogastric (NG) tube, the capsule can be opened and the granules mixed with water and injected or poured into the tube. The oral suspension can be prepared by emptying the contents of a 2.5 mg or 5 mg packet into a container with 5 mL of water. Always follow your doctor's instructions on the dosage and administration of esomeprazole.

What are common precautions when taking Esomeprazole?

Common precautions when taking esomeprazole include:

1. Regular check-ups: Your doctor will monitor your progress regularly to ensure the medicine is working effectively and make any necessary adjustments.
2. Laboratory tests: Your doctor may order blood, urine, or other tests to check for unwanted effects.
3. Drug interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products, as some may interact with esomeprazole.
4. Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.
5. Pediatric use: Safety and efficacy have not been established for children younger than 1 month of age. Use caution in elderly patients, as they may be more sensitive to the effects of the medicine.
6. Breastfeeding: There is limited information on the safety of esomeprazole when breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before taking the medicine while breastfeeding.
7. Storage: Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Keep it out of reach of children and do not keep outdated or unneeded medicine.

Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and ask for clarification if you are uncertain about any aspect of the precautions.