Antacids are among the safest drugs for acid reflux and side effects are rare. Depending on the antacid's ingredients, side effects may include diarrhea, constipation, calcium loss and kidney stones.
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.
In general, try to avoid spicy foods, caffeine, and acidic foods (such as the grapefruit, limes, and other citrus fruits you mentioned). All of these things can increase the amount of acid in your stomach, which can worsen your symptoms.
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.
But if you've been taking esomeprazole for a long time speak to your doctor before you stop taking it. Stopping suddenly could make your stomach produce a lot more acid, and make your symptoms come back. Reducing the dose gradually before stopping completely will prevent this happening.
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.
Once the recommended initial evidence-based course is completed and patients continue PPI treatment after 2–4/8 weeks (depending on whether the indication was dyspepsia, peptic ulcer or reflux), they could be considered long-term users.
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.
Whole grains such as oatmeal, couscous and brown rice. Root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots and beets. Green vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli and green beans.
Tolerance and safety were good and comparable in both groups. Conclusion Gaviscon® was non-inferior to omeprazole in achieving a 24-h heartburn-free period in moderate episodic heartburn, and is a relevant effective alternative treatment in moderate GERD in primary care.
Side Effects of Long-Term Use of Acid Reflux Medicines
In recent years, long-term PPI use has been linked to: Increased risk of stomach cancer: PPIs block the production of acid that can potentially damage the esophagus.
If you forget to take it
once a day – take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it's less than 12 hours until your next dose. If that happens, skip the missed dose and take the next one at the usual time.
In some patients, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms are so powerful they overwhelm proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as Prilosec, Prevacid and Nexium, leaving heartburn, regurgitation and other symptoms unchecked.
The manufacturers failed to properly test the medication, and failed to warn doctors and patients of certain risks. The manufacturers concealed evidence of the dangers from the government and the public, and misrepresented the safety of the drug in its marketing material.
In some people, Nexium may cause drowsiness and affect your ability to drive. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how Nexium affects you.
The common adverse effects of esomeprazole include headache, diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting. Esomeprazole is metabolised by cytochrome P450 2C19 and 3A4 so there is a potential for interactions. Known interacting drugs include diazepam, cisapride, clarithromycin, citalopram, imipramine and phenytoin.
Is yogurt a good choice? Yogurt that is not too sour is also excellent for acid reflux, because of the probiotics that help normalize bowel function. Yogurt also provides protein, and soothes stomach discomfort, often providing a cooling sensation.
Water. In general, drinking water can help balance the pH of a particularly acidic meal, which may help to lower the risk of acid reflux. Studies show that drinking mineral water with a high hydrogen carbonate content can help to alleviate the frequency and severity of acid reflux.