What Is It Used For? Nexium is a prescription pill that's prescribed by doctors for the treatment of acid reflux disease. It works by shutting off tiny acid pumps in your stomach. How Is It Used? Follow the directions for using Nexium provided by your doctor. Swallow Nexium WHOLE. DO NOT chew or crush the Nexium capsule. Take Nexium at least 1 hour before a meal, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. If you have problems swallowing capsules, you may open the Nexium capsule and sprinkle the contents on 1 tablespoon of applesauce. Mix the medicine with the applesauce and swallow immediately. The applesauce should not be hot and should be soft enough to swallow without chewing. Discard any uneaten applesauce/medicine mixture. Nexium may be taken with antacids if your doctor has instructed you to take antacids. Are There Possible Side Effects? Nexium side effects that may go away during treatment include headache, constipation, cough, or diarrhea. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Contact your doctor IMMEDIATELY if you experience throat pain, chest pain, severe stomach pain, or coffee-ground vomit. An allergic reaction to Nexium is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to Nexium include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. Is It Safe? Before starting any new medicine, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with your doctor or pharmacist. If Nexium gives you an allergic reaction, or you've ever had an allergic reaction to Prilosec, you will not be able to use this medication. For Women: If you anticipate becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using Nexium during pregnancy. It is unknown if Nexium is excreted in breast-milk. If you are currently or will be breast feeding while you are using Nexium, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby. What About Interactions With Other Drugs? Before taking Nexium, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines: digoxin (Lanoxin, Lanoxicaps); itraconazole (Sporanox) or ketoconazole (Nizoral); or iron (Feosol, Mol-Iron, Fergon, Femiron, others). You may not be able to take Nexium, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any of the medicines listed above. What If I Miss A Dose? Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. How Should It Be Stored? Store it at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children. Anything Else I Should Know? Nexium decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach. Nexium is used to treat ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD or heartburn), erosive esophagitis, and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid production. NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the product.