Nexium

The antibiotics prescribed in conjunction with Nexium for the treatment of ulcers have occasionally been known to cause severe side effects and life-threatening allergic reactions. If you've been prescribed this combination, be sure to check the entries on amoxicillin and clarithromycin for more information.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Nexium

If Nexium is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Nexium with the following:

• Diazepam
• Digoxin
• Iron salts
• Ketoconazole
• Warfarin

There's no problem, however, with combining antacids and Nexium; no unwanted interaction will result.

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Nexium during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, check with your doctor.

Because Nexium is likely to appear in breast milk and could harm a nursing infant, you'll need to choose between taking Nexium or breastfeeding your baby.

Recommended dosage for Nexium

ADULTS

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

For relief of symptoms, the usual dosage is one 20-milligram capsule daily for 4 weeks. If symptoms persist, your doctor may prescribe an additional 4 weeks of therapy.

Erosive Esophagitis

To heal damage, the dosage is 20 or 40 milligrams of Nexium once daily for 4 to 8 weeks. If you haven't fully healed after 8 weeks, your doctor may prescribe an additional 4 to 8 weeks of therapy. To maintain healing, the dosage is 20 milligrams once daily.

Duodenal Ulcers

As part of a three-drug treatment to rid the body of ulcer-causing H. Pylori bacteria, Nexium is prescribed at a dosage of 40 milligrams once daily for 10 days.

If you have severe liver problems, you should take no more than 20 milligrams of Nexium per day.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. There have been some reports of Nexium overdoses. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• Symptoms of Nexium overdose may include:
  Blurred vision, confusion, drowsiness, dry mouth, flushing, headache, nausea, rapid heartbeat, sweating