Esomeprazole 40 mg Tablets—The tablet is used to treat excessive stomach acid and conditions like GERD, erosive esophagitis, and stomach ulcers. Esomeprazole is generally prescribed for treating symptoms like heartburn and allows the esophagus to heal. The medication is also used in combination with other antibiotics to eliminate Helicobacter pylori infections and prevent the recurrence of ulcers. It is also considered an effective medicine for individuals taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) long-term.
Esomeprazole tablets should be taken at least one hour before a meal, usually in the morning. Do not crush or chew the tablets; swallow them as a whole. Continue taking the medicine even if your symptoms disappear early. A sudden stop will not eliminate the root cause of the disease. Take the exact dose and duration as recommended by your doctor.
How Do Esomeprazole Tablets Work?
Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), which works by reducing the amount of acid produced in the stomach. In the lining of your stomach, there are tiny structures known as proton pumps. These pumps secrete acid in the stomach to digest food. Esomeprazole destroys the proton pumps and binds permanently to the enzyme, preventing it from working. It blocks proton pumps and cuts down the production of normal and food-stimulated stomach acid. This process results in a long-lasting effect of over 24 hours. Lowering the stomach’s acid level allows damaged tissues in the esophagus, stomach, and intestines time to heal.
Uses of Esomeprazole Tablets
The following are the uses of Esomeprazole Tablets:
- Very effective in the treatment of GERD
- Promotes the healing of the esophagus if damaged by stomach acid
- Healing of stomach and upper gut ulcers
- Prevention of ulcers in patients who take NSAIDs for a long time.
- Helps in treating Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
Side Effects of Esomeprazole Tablets
It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and discuss side effects. A few side effects are listed below:
- Headache
- Gas
- Constipation
- Stomach Pain
- Diarrhea
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry Mouth
- Nausea and Vomiting
Precautions and safety measures of Esomeprazole Tablets
Key precautions to take while consuming esomeprazole tablets:
- Do not use Esomeprazole tablets if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients.
- Inform your doctor if you have or have ever had severe liver or kidney diseases or low blood levels of magnesium, calcium, or potassium.
- Alcohol consumption will irritate your stomach and worsen symptoms.
- Avoid spicy, fatty, or acidic foods, as they increase stomach acid.
- Esomeprazole causes dizziness or blurred vision; therefore, avoiding heavy machinery or driving is important.
- Consulting your doctor is essential if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
