Nexium is commonly used to treat heartburn and indigestion. However, it can also have side effects if you are taking certain medications. Warfarin, for example, can thin the blood, so it is important to talk to your doctor before starting Nexium. Cilostazol, a medication for indigestion and heartburn, is also a known side effect of Nexium. It is also used to treat intermittent claudication, a disease characterized by the insufficient blood supply. Also, cilostazol, a prescription drug, may cause side effects, including gastrointestinal bleeding.
Interferes with Absorption of Calcium, Iron, and Vitamin B12
There are many foods high in calcium, but there are also some that interfere with absorption. Phytic acid and oxalic acid are two substances that prevent the absorption of calcium. These are found in spinach, rhubarb, sweet potatoes, beans, nuts, and unleavened bread. Phytic acid is also found in raw beans.
Many types of digestive disorders and intestinal surgeries can interfere with vitamin B12 and calcium absorption. Surgery on the ileum or stomach can cause intrinsic factor deficiency and may prevent the absorption of vitamin B12. Other digestive disorders such as celiac disease and Crohn’s disease can also impair the absorption of B12.
Increases risk of Bone Fractures
The FDA recently issued warnings about the risks of proton pump inhibitors, or PPIs, which treat heartburn and ulcers. The drugs can increase the risk of fractures in some patients, especially those who take high doses and are taking them for years. This applies to the popular acid-reducing medications Nexium and Prilosec OTC and Zegerid, which are available over the counter.
The FDA is now examining the risk of bone fractures in patients taking these medications. It found that long-term use of esomeprazole may increase the risk of bone fractures. The FDA says that short-term use of these drugs at low doses does not increase the risk of bone fractures. However, the FDA is also investigating the safety and effectiveness of over-the-counter versions of the drugs, which are recommended for a 14-day course up to three times a year.
The FDA’s decision was based on data from seven studies conducted over the last decade. These included almost 200,000 PPI users and more than 700,000 people who did not experience bone fractures. Six of the studies found an increased risk of fractures. The risk was greater in women taking higher doses and for longer periods of time than in those taking lower doses. The studies also focused on older users and were more likely to find a link between PPIs and fractures.
The study found that women on both 20mg and 40mg of Nexium were at increased risk of hip fractures. Despite the risks, the study also found that long-term PPI use did not increase the risk of hip fractures. Those who used the drugs regularly were not at risk of fracture. Those who were at risk of fractures were older than 65.
Increases Risk of Interstitial Nephritis
The body’s immune system is responsible for fighting off invaders, like bugs and germs. To fight off these invaders, the immune system sends white blood cells and antibodies to attack them. These cells then stick to the germs. But sometimes, the immune system gets overwhelmed and interstitial nephritis can develop. Symptoms can vary but can include excessive thirst and dryness of the skin.
Symptoms of the condition can be detected by blood tests. If you notice fluid in your lungs, it’s an indication that your kidneys have become inflamed. Other signs include high blood pressure and changes in weight. If the condition is advanced, your doctor will likely prescribe dialysis or other kidney replacement. In some cases, people with kidney failure may also be prescribed medication for high blood pressure.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, like aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen, have been linked with interstitial nephritis. A common cause is a stoppage of a drug, such as aspirin. However, the cause of the disease is not yet known. However, the drug’s discontinuation may increase the risk of the condition.
The most common risk factor is infection. Interstitial nephritis is an infection resulting from an injury to the kidney. During this condition, the kidneys fail to produce enough urine to filter out waste products and maintain a healthy body weight. This infection can lead to renal failure and other complications. A multidisciplinary team can help to diagnose and treat patients with interstitial nephritis.
Increases Risk of Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Nexium may increase the risk of developing Clostridium difficile infection, potentially life-threatening bacteria. It can cause watery diarrhea and lead to other symptoms including fever, headache, and loss of appetite. It can also increase the risk of pneumonia. It decreases stomach acid and may allow pathogenic bacteria to move to the lungs. Nexium may also cause severe drug allergies, such as anaphylaxis, bronchospasm, and gut infection, but this is rare.
Patients with ulcerative colitis or pancreatic disease may use Nexium as a treatment for acid-related conditions. Patients taking PPIs, such as Prevacid or Protonix, may use Nexium to help prevent esophageal bleeding. Those taking Nexium may also benefit from the drug’s effects on ulcer healing rates. However, patients taking NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), aspirin, or other anti-inflammatory drugs should talk with their doctor before starting Nexium.
Nexium is available as a prescription and OTC. It is designed to treat GERD in adults, although children younger than 1 year of age should seek medical attention if they are experiencing symptoms. This medication can be taken as needed for as long as eight weeks, depending on the severity of the condition. However, it is not recommended for those who experience heartburn on a regular basis. Children younger than a year of age should take it no longer than six weeks to avoid the risk of NSAID-associated ulcers. It is available as delayed-release capsules or tablets. Take Nexium 20mg or 40mg once daily. As with all medications, take them with a meal.
Children aged 1-11 should take 10 mg one time daily, as directed by their doctor. Adults should take 40 mg two times a day. A delayed-release 24-hour capsule may be beneficial in the treatment of heartburn. As with any medicine, it is important to follow the instructions given by your physician. While taking Nexium, do not forget to read your Medication Guide. If you feel any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor right away.