Esomeprazole
Also known as: Nexium
What it's for
Esomeprazole reduces stomach acid. It treats acid reflux, heartburn, and stomach ulcers. It is very similar to omeprazole but may work slightly better for some people.
Comes as: Tablets or capsules
How to take it
- Adults: Usually 20mg to 40mg once a day.
- Take in the morning, 30 minutes to 1 hour before food.
- Swallow whole - do not chew or crush.
- For heartburn, you may only need it for 2 to 4 weeks.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Headache
- Stomach pain or wind
- Feeling sick or diarrhoea
- Dry mouth
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Not usually for long-term use unless advised by your doctor
- Long-term use may affect vitamin B12 and magnesium levels
- Tell your doctor if you have liver problems
Get medical help urgently if…
- You have difficulty swallowing
- You vomit blood or have blood in your stool
- You lose weight without trying
- You have severe stomach pain
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.