About esomeprazole magnesium dihydrate
Proton pump inhibitor
Used for
- Treats gastro-oesophageal reflux and heartburn
- Heals inflammation or ulcers in the oesophagus
- Treats stomach or duodenal ulcers, often with antibiotics
- Prevents ulcers linked to long-term anti-inflammatory medicines
Usual adult dose
Usually 20–40 mg once daily; dose and duration depend on the condition.
Usual dose in children
For children aged 1 year and older, reflux treatment is weight-based, commonly 10–20 mg once daily; specialist guidance is needed.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, or wind
- Long-term use may lower magnesium or vitamin B12
- Rarely, severe allergic or skin reactions
Important warnings
- Seek medical assessment for trouble swallowing, unexplained weight loss, vomiting blood, or black stools.
- Long-term use may increase fracture risk and can mask stomach cancer symptoms.
- Tell a clinician about severe liver disease or previous allergy to similar medicines.
- Do not crush or chew gastro-resistant tablets.
Pregnancy
Available evidence has not shown a clear increased risk, but use during pregnancy should be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter breast milk; discuss use with a healthcare professional, especially for long-term treatment.
Interactions
- May affect clopidogrel; the combination is generally avoided.
- Can interact with warfarin, phenytoin, digoxin, and methotrexate.
- May alter absorption of HIV medicines, ketoconazole, or erlotinib.
- Rifampicin and St John’s wort can reduce esomeprazole levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.