Nexium (Esomeprazole Magnesium)

They need to know if you have any of these conditions: -bloody or black, tarry stools -chest pain -have had heartburn for over 3 months -have heartburn with dizziness, lightheadedness, or sweating -liver disease -low levels of magnesium in the blood -lupus -nausea, vomiting -stomach pain -trouble swallowing -unexplained weight loss -vomiting with blood -wheezing -an unusual or allergic reaction to esomeprazole, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives -pregnant or trying to get pregnant -breast-feeding

Take this medicine by mouth. Swallow the capsules whole with a drink of water. Follow the directions on the prescription or product label. Do not crush, break or chew. The capsules can be opened and the contents sprinkled on applesauce. Do not crush the contents into the food. This medicine works best if taken on an empty stomach at least one hour before a meal. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 4 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once. NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications: -atazanavir This medicine may also interact with the following medications: -ampicillin -antiviral medicines for HIV or AIDS -certain medicines for fungal infections like ketoconazole and itraconazole -cilostazol -clopidogrel -diazepam -digoxin -erlotinib -diuretics -iron salts -methotrexate -St. John's Wort -tacrolimus -rifampin -warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

If you are taking this medicine without a prescription, it may take 1 to 4 days for it to fully relieve your heartburn. If you are using this medicine with a prescription from your healthcare professional for a more serious condition, it can take several days before your condition gets better. Check with your doctor or health care professional if your condition does not start to get better, or if it gets worse. If you take this medicine for long periods of time, you may need blood work done. This medicine may cause a decrease in vitamin B12. You should make sure that you get enough vitamin B12 while you are taking this medicine. Discuss the foods you eat and the vitamins you take with your health care professional.

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible: - allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue - bone, muscle or joint pain - breathing problems - chest pain or chest tightness - dark yellow or brown urine - fast, irregular heartbeat - feeling faint or lightheaded - fever or sore throat - muscle spasms - rash on cheeks or arms that gets worse in the sun -stomach polyps - tremors - unusual bleeding or bruising - unusually weak or tired - upset stomach - yellowing of the eyes or skin Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome): - constipation - diarrhea - dry mouth - headache - nausea - stomach pain or gas - vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Keep out of the reach of children. Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.