About esomeprazole as esomeprazole magnesium
Proton pump inhibitor
Used for
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and erosive oesophagitis
- Stomach or duodenal ulcers, including those linked to Helicobacter pylori
- Prevention of ulcers from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Excess stomach acid from Zollinger–Ellison syndrome
Usual adult dose
Usually 20–40 mg once daily for reflux; ulcer treatment and prevention doses vary by cause.
Usual dose in children
For reflux, commonly 10–20 mg once daily in children aged 1 year and older; dose depends on age and weight.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Abdominal pain, diarrhoea, nausea, or constipation
- Long-term use may lower magnesium or vitamin B12
- Rarely, severe allergic reactions or kidney inflammation
Important warnings
- Seek urgent care for severe allergic reactions or severe, persistent diarrhoea.
- Long-term use may increase fracture risk and cause low magnesium or vitamin B12.
- May mask symptoms of stomach cancer; persistent or worsening symptoms need assessment.
- Do not use with rilpivirine-containing medicines.
Pregnancy
Human evidence is generally reassuring, but use during pregnancy should be based on clinical need.
Breastfeeding
Small amounts may enter milk; infant effects are not well established. Consider clinical guidance.
Interactions
- Clopidogrel: esomeprazole may reduce its antiplatelet effect.
- Warfarin: may alter blood clotting; monitoring may be needed.
- May affect methotrexate, digoxin, tacrolimus, and some HIV medicines.
- Antacids and food do not usually cause important interactions.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.