Prescription omeprazole is usually taken once a day before a meal but may be taken twice a day when used with other medications to eliminate H. pylori, or up to three times a day, before meals when used to treat conditions in which the stomach produces too much acid.
Proton Pump Inhibitors for Consistent Acid Reflux
Proton Pump Inhibitors are one of the most common drug classes today, used to block acid more effectively for a longer period of time than H2 Blockers. These need to be taken everyday for the course of treatment for it to work best.
Drugs for Long-Term Heartburn Relief
Proton pump inhibitors such as Prilosec (omeprazole), Protonix (pantoprazole), and Prevacid (lansoprazole) are usually the last line of defense in acid reducers.
Do not take more than one capsule each day. You should not chew the capsule or empty its contents into food or drink. Do not use Nexium 24HR for longer than 14 days unless your healthcare professional directs you to do so. You can repeat a 14-day regimen once every four months.
The concerns around their extended use are that they may lead to increased risk of bone fractures, vitamin B and magnesium deficiencies, and infection with Clostridium difficile bacteria, which can cause serious bowel damage and in some vulnerable people, lead to an increased risk of premature death.
Most people taking a short-term course of Nexium will only experience minor gut-related side effects, such as nausea, constipation, or diarrhea. Long-term use or higher doses of Nexium could increase the risk of rare side effects, such as low magnesium or vitamin B12 levels, bone fractures, or kidney problems.
If you are experiencing heartburn on a daily basis, it is likely time to be evaluated for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Persistent, untreated GERD may lead to more serious conditions. Sometimes, it can be a precursor to other diseases, including cancer.
Is it safe to take Gaviscon for a long time? Gaviscon does not usually cause problems when you take it for a long time. Tell your doctor if you need to take it regularly for more than a week.
If your symptoms strike less often, use a fast-acting over-the-counter antacid such as Maalox, Mylanta, Rolaids, or Tums. Or try an over-the-counter H2 blocker, such as famotidine (Pepcid AC) or ranitidine (Zantac 75). They tend to cause fewer side effects and are typically cheaper than PPIs.
Antacids are safe for most people. Some of the brand names of the safest antacids include Gaviscon, Gelusil, Tums, Maalox, and others.
The terms acid reflux, heartburn, and GERD are often used interchangeably, but they actually mean different things. Acid reflux is the backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. The feeling of acid reflux is heartburn: a mild burning sensation in the mid-chest, often occurring after meals or when lying down.
Just like vegetables, a banana is a low-acid and high alkaline fruit that is also great for the digestive tract. If you battle with heartburn, bananas can help prevent stomach acid production while also helping things run smoothly through the digestive system.
Yogurt can sooth heartburn and promote a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut. Pile up your plate!
Heartburn that occurs frequently and interferes with your routine is considered gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) treatment may require prescription medications and, occasionally, surgery or other procedures.
Eisen considers heartburn "occasional" if it occurs once a week or less. He says it's time to seek medical help if you have had heartburn more than once a week for six months or longer more and are not getting better.
Acid reflux can cause a burning sensation in the throat and chest. Drinking water, low fat milk, and herbal teas may help manage it.
If you have allergies to any medications or medication ingredients, especially if they're in esomeprazole or other PPIs. If you take blood thinners, methotrexate, HIV medications, antifungal drugs or any other medications that may interact with Nexium. If you take vitamins or supplements, including St. John's Wort.
Yes, Nexium and other heartburn drugs may cause weight gain — as can other drugs, such as certain antidepressants, beta-blockers, and antihistamines. You should talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting any medication so you understand all the potential side effects of any drug you take.
Nexium 24HR should not be used for more than 14 days in a row unless directed by a doctor.
Most patients have difficulty discontinuing their PPI's because the amount of acid in their digestive system surges when they stop taking the drug, and they're often left with symptoms like excruciating stomach pain and increased heartburn.
Some people start to feel relief from GERD symptoms within 1 day. But it may take up to 4 days for other people. Generic Nexium should only be used for 2 weeks, but prescription Nexium can be taken for longer. If you're still feeling symptoms, talk to your healthcare provider about whether or not to continue taking it.