Nexium vs. Prilosec: Opting for the Best GERD Medication
Heartburn is a widely spread and ultimate dangerous health condition. Untreated symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease can contribute to its severity. As a result, you will suffer from a range of complications and devastating health impairments. On the other hand, the pharmaceutical market is full of medications to eliminate the negative influence of the condition and improve the overall feeling of a patient with GERD.
Proton pump inhibitors are the most potent remedies, which fight GERD by decreasing the amount of stomach acid in the organism. Nexium (Esomeprazole) and Prilosec (Omeprazole) are bright representatives of the class, both working effectively and producing the desirable effects. These two medications are commonly prescribed to patients, who are diagnosed with various health disorders, such as GERD, esophagitis, heartburn, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and others.
Differences between the Medications
Despite the treatments belong to the same group of proton pump inhibitors, they have various active ingredients, so they promote a bit changed effects. However, such differences are minor.
According to the results of the studies, being aware of Nexium and Prilosec differences will help you opt for a more efficient remedy. The active ingredients of Nexium are likely to promote a more powerful impact on the disturbing condition, fighting it faster and more effectively.
Another issue, which contributes to Nexium benefits, is its cost. Despite brand Nexium is more expensive that Prilosec, the correlation between quality and price is significantly lower. Therefore, opting for an effective gastroesophageal reflux disease treatment and choosing between Nexium and Prilosec, you will have some points to compare and make a final decision. Besides, you need to contact your medical specialist to eliminate possible risks related to contraindications or restrictions of any medication.
Similar Points and Safety Peculiarities of Prilosec and Nexium
Irrespective of specific differences, these proton pump inhibitors have much in common. First of all, both are effective and ultimately powerful, so you need to get qualified medical assistance before their use. Severe side effects and adverse reactions can bother patients in case of the slightest Prilosec or Nexium misuse.
Additionally, you should also pay due attention to other features during the drug intake, including:
- Side effects. Most commonly, proton pump inhibitors including Prilosec and Nexium can trigger mild to severe adverse reactions, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, and others. However, the slight difference exists here as well, since more patients have reported side effects occurrence with Prilosec than Nexium intake. More severe complications can be triggered by the medications misuse or overdose, with the most common being pneumonia, wrist or spine fractures, bacterial inflammation, nutritional deficit and others.
- Drug interactions. Do not take Prilosec or Nexium with other medications, unless your doctor advises you otherwise. Warfarin, Rifampin, St. John’s wort and numerous other pharmaceuticals can interfere with GERD treatments, leading to nasty side effects.
- Warnings and precautions. Special dose adjustment may be required for patients, who have individual health specifications, including decreased magnesium level in the organism, severe liver impairments, pregnancy or lactation.
Trying to get the best medication for GERD treatment, make sure you are aware of these safety points. Follow these directions to get the desirable results from Prilosec or Nexium therapy.