Heartburn occurs when the stomach produces excess acid to breakdown ingested food and the acid refluxes into the esophagus, leaving a burning sensation in the throat. Heartburn can be treated in three different ways, with Antacids and H2 Blockers which provide temporary relief, and Proton Pump Inhibitors, like Nexium and Prilosec which provide longer lasting relief.
The Differences Between Nexium and Prilosec:
Nexium is a prescription drug that treats GERD (Gastro esophageal reflux disease), Zollinger- Ellison Syndrome, ulcers, and heartburn. Nexium is usually only prescribed to adults, for acid reflux but can be prescribe to infants ages one month to one year.
Prilosec is an over the counter drug used along with other medications to treat duodenal ulcers, stomach ulcers, GERD (Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease), erosive esophagitis, and works as initial treatment for Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome. Prilosec can be given to both children and adults for acid reflux, but is not recommended for infants.
Both Nexium and Prilosec have similar side effects; including headache, diarrhea, nausea, gas, abdominal pain, constipation, dry mouth, and drowsiness. Infants who have been prescribed Nexium can have severe abdominal pain, regurgitation, and rapid heartbeat. More serious side effects include risk of bone fractures, inflammation of the stomach lining, lower magnesium levels, seizures, dizziness, cramps, muscle weakness, and rapid heartbeat.
Other Proton Pump Inhibitors to Be Cautious of:
- Prevacid (lansoprazole)
- Dexilant (dexlansoprazole)
- Zegerid (omeprazole )
- Protonix (pantoprazole)
- AcipHex (rabeprazole)
Serious Health Conditions Associated with Long Term Use:
Medication labels warn consumers of some possible side effects, however new studies show that long term use of Nexium and Prilosec can lead to serious health conditions. These conditions include Chronic Kidney Disease (buildup of wastes in the blood), Acute Kidney Injury (abrupt loss of kidney function leading to kidney failure), and Acute Interstitial Nephritis (sudden inflammation of the kidneys), Dementia, and Stroke.
Millions of people are currently taking drugs to control heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux resulting in adverse side effects. If you have taken Nexium and Prilosec and have experience any of these side effects, contact your doctor immediately.
Litigation Concerning These Medications:
The main argument against Nexium and Prilosec drug makers, AstraZeneca and Procter & Gamble, is that they failed to warn consumers about the dangerous long-term effect of Proton Pump Inhibitors.
There have not been any large group settlements or recalls involving Nexium and Prilosec yet, however, lawsuits are currently being consolidated regarding those who have been diagnosed with kidney disease or kidney failure. If you or a loved one have suffered from the side effects of Nexium or Prilosec, call our Long Island, New York office, as soon as possible, at (631) 543-3663 for a free case evaluation.