Nexium Side Effects
Summary
The most common side effects of Nexium are mild and include headaches, dry mouth, rash, drowsiness and dizziness. Other side effects may also include discomforts associated with the stomach and digestive tract such as nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, gas and constipation. These side effects are not a cause for serious concern, though they can be discussed with a doctor in an attempt to find a more comfortable treatment option. Serious side effects such as extreme pain or discomfort and indications of an allergic reaction, however, should be addressed immediately.
Common Nexium Side Effects
Common Nexium side effects may include:
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Stomach pain, gas and constipation
- Drowsiness
- Rash
- Dizziness
Of these, headache, stomach pain and diarrhea are the most common side effects in adults age 18 and up. In children age 17 and under, the most common esomeprazole side effects include stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, headache and drowsiness.
Other mild side effects that occur less frequently include the following:
- Nervousness or jitteriness
- Muscle pain
- Leg cramps
- Weakness
- Water retention
Serious Nexium Side Effects
Serious side effects are uncommon. However, if you do experience these side effects you should consult your physician immediately as they can be serious.
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Chest pain
- Severe stomach or abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Persistent nausea
- Yellow eyes or skin
- Dark colored urine
- Excessive drowsiness or weakness
- Bone pain
- Fast heartbeat
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
These side effects may indicate an adverse reaction to the medication and should be treated immediately. The respiratory conditions could be indicative of a serious lung infection such as pneumonia which will need medical treatment.
Serious side effects that indicate an allergic reaction to the medication include:
- Rash or hives
- Itching
- Swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe dizziness
- Hoarseness
- Tightness in the chest
A rash, itching or swelling on the neck, face and tongue are especially dangerous. If you begin to experience any of the above side effects, you must consult a doctor immediately. If you have previously experienced an allergic reaction to medications such as lansoprazole or omeprazole, you will most likely experience adverse side effects as well, and should discuss this with your doctor before you begin the treatment.
Long Term Nexium Side Effects
Nexium is designed to be used in the short term. Though it is important to complete a full dosage to get full relief from the effects of excess stomach acid, it is also important not to take this drug as a regular regimen. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following side effects:
- Numbness
- Tingling of the hands and/or feet
- Unusual weakness
- Sore tongue
These symptoms can indicate a serious B12 deficiency. This side effect is most common in those who have been taking the medication for three years or more.
Using Nexium over a long period of time or in high doses can increase the risk of bone fractures. Osteoporosis-related injuries such as fractures of the wrist, hip or spine are more likely with long term use of this drug. Reduced magnesium is a long term Nexium side effect as well.
Nexium is not generally recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding as the medication can be transferred to the baby. Nexium and esomeprazole are acceptable treatments for children suffering from excess stomach acid, but should not be used for more than 8 weeks.
