Nexium 24HR protects you from frequent heartburn by turning your acid pumps from on to off, reducing the amount of acid that rises into your esophagus and alleviating heartburn.

Nexium 24hr Dosage and Administration Swallow whole. Take before eating in the AM. ≥18yrs: 20mg once daily for 14 days; may repeat 14-day course every 4 months.

Yes. All prescription NEXIUM indications and formulations remain available with a prescription. However, Nexium 24HR is available without a prescription for the treatment of frequent heartburn.

It relieves symptoms such as heartburn, difficulty swallowing, and cough. This medication helps heal acid damage to the stomach and esophagus, helps prevent ulcers, and may help prevent cancer of the esophagus. Esomeprazole belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).

You can eat and drink normally while taking esomeprazole. However, it's best to avoid foods that seem to make your indigestion worse – things like rich, spicy and fatty foods. Try to cut down on caffeinated drinks, such as tea, coffee and cola. Reduce or try to avoid alcohol.

The product information for Nexium 40 mg capsules and granule packets states you should take them at least 1 hour before meals. This is because much of the research on PPIs show that they're best absorbed when taken on an empty stomach.

The main difference between the prescription and OTC versions is that Nexium 24HR is distributed only in 20 mg dosage. The OTC frequent heartburn product is still as safe and efficient as the prescription version, but it may appear not so strong for your conditions.

Nexium is available as a prescription and over the counter (OTC). It used to be prescription-only when it was first FDA-approved in 2001.

Most people with a Nexium prescription can take it once a day, although some people can take two doses a day. Over-the-counter versions of the drug should be taken once a day for up to 14 days every four months.

These are medications with brand names like Nexium or Losec and reduce acid in the stomach to very low levels and can be very effective at combating the burning sensation in the chest. Trouble is, long-term use of PPIs can be harmful.

Studies show that high-dosage or long-term use (12 months or longer) of PPIs may further elevate the risk of fragility in bone structure. If you need to take a PPI such as esomeprazole, discuss the potential side effects with your doctor.

Proton pump inhibitors (such as esomeprazole) may increase your risk for bone fractures, especially with longer use, higher doses, and in older adults. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about ways to prevent bone loss/fracture, such as by taking calcium (such as calcium citrate) and vitamin D supplements.