Product Information:

NEXUM 20mg Capsules contain Esomeprazole 20mg, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that provides potent and long-lasting suppression of gastric acid secretion by irreversibly inhibiting the H⁺/K⁺ ATPase enzyme (proton pump) in gastric parietal cells. Esomeprazole is the S-isomer of omeprazole and offers improved bioavailability and consistent acid control.

This strength is commonly used for short-term treatment of mild to moderate acid-related disorders.

Uses of (NEXUM 20MG CAPSULES):

1. Treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and heartburn
2. Healing of erosive esophagitis
3. Management of duodenal and gastric ulcers
4. Helicobacter pylori eradication (as part of triple or quadruple therapy)
5. Prevention of NSAID-induced gastric ulcers in at-risk patients

Key Benefits of (NEXUM 20MG CAPSULES):

1. Rapid and sustained acid suppression (onset within 1–2 hours)
2. Once-daily dosing for convenience
3. Promotes healing of esophageal and gastric mucosa
4. Effective for both symptom relief and ulcer prevention

How To Use (NEXUM 20MG CAPSULES):

1. Take once daily, preferably 30–60 minutes before breakfast (or first meal of the day).
2. Swallow whole with water—do not crush, chew, or open the capsule (enteric-coated granules may be damaged).
3. For H. pylori eradication: Take twice daily (morning and evening) with antibiotics for 7–14 days.
4. Duration: Typically 4–8 weeks for GERD/ulcers; shorter for heartburn relief.

When Not to Use (NEXUM 20MG CAPSULES):

Do not use if you have:

1. Hypersensitivity to esomeprazole or other benzimidazole PPIs (e.g., omeprazole, pantoprazole)
2. Concurrent use of atazanavir or nelfinavir (PPIs reduce their absorption)
3. Severe liver disease (use with caution; consider lower dose)

Side Effects of (NEXUM 20MG CAPSULES):

Common: Headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, flatulence, constipation.

Rare: Dizziness, rash, dry mouth, vitamin B12 or magnesium deficiency (with long-term use).

Serious (rare, usually with prolonged use >1 year):

1. Clostridioides difficile-associated diarrhea
2. Increased risk of bone fractures (hip, wrist, spine)
3. Hypomagnesemia (muscle spasms, arrhythmias, seizures)
4. Acute interstitial nephritis (fever, rash, reduced urine output)
5. Discontinue and seek medical help if severe diarrhea, bone pain, or irregular heartbeat occurs.

Dosage: (NEXUM 20MG CAPSULES):

1. GERD / Heartburn: 20mg once daily for 4–8 weeks
2. Gastric/Duodenal Ulcer: 20mg once daily for 4–8 weeks
3. H. pylori Eradication: 20mg twice daily + two antibiotics for 7–14 days
4. NSAID Ulcer Prophylaxis: 20mg once daily
5. Elderly or mild hepatic impairment: No routine adjustment needed

Who It’s For (NEXUM 20MG CAPSULES):

Adults with mild to moderate acid-related gastrointestinal disorders requiring short- to medium-term acid suppression. Not intended for immediate heartburn relief (takes 1–4 days for full effect).

Warnings & Precautions:

1. Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest duration
2. Long-term use (>1 year) requires monitoring of magnesium, B12, and bone health
3. May mask symptoms of gastric cancer—rule out malignancy in persistent dyspepsia
4. Avoid in patients on atazanavir or nelfinavir (HIV medications)

Drug Interactions:

1. Atazanavir, nelfinavir: ↓ Absorption—avoid concomitant use
2. Clopidogrel: Esomeprazole has minimal interaction (safer than omeprazole)
3. Methotrexate: PPIs may ↑ levels—monitor toxicity
4. Iron, ketoconazole, digoxin: Altered absorption due to pH change
5. Always inform your doctor about all medications.

Additional Information:

Store below 30°C in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not use after the expiration date. Available over-the-counter or by prescription in Pakistan.