Nexium vs Prilosec

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) help people daily by easing the pain and symptoms that accompany heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).  The current market has several top performing PPIs that are recommended by doctors.  These PPIs are called Nexium and Prilosec, and help block the production of acid in the stomach.  The less acid produced, the less pain and discomfort the patient will experience with GERD or acid reflux. But be aware, some who take these medications suffer serious adverse events. Those who do may consider filing a Nexium lawsuit seeking compensation for their injuries.

Both Nexium and Prilosec perform their PPI duties as they were created to do.  By taking them before a meal, both types of pills help reduce stomach acid to prevent the burning sensation they may happen as your food is digested in the stomach.  Stomach acid can end up in the esophagus, and both types of pills help reduce inflammation and erosion of the esophagus.  Nexium and Prilosec also help treat duodenal ulcers by helping reduce acid.

PPI Comparisons

Prilosec and Nexium are popular PPIs, but they do have a few differences.  Both types of medication are generally similar, but with some minor adjustments.  These medications have the same chemical make-up, but with different amounts of active ingredients in each.  Studies have shown that Prilosec didn’t have the same effectiveness over GERD as Nexium does.

Also, another large difference between the two medications is the price.  Nexium was generally priced higher than Prilosec and was only available by prescription, but now Nexium is offered as an over-the-counter medication and has been priced a bit more competitively with Prilosec.  Many insurance companies do not cover over-the-counter PPIs.

PPI Side Effects

Prilosec and Nexium do have side effects that can occur.  While many people do not report experiencing any side effects, there are some that do.  PPIs interfere with the production of acid.  They can occasionally cause vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, and nausea.  The side effects were more prevalent with Nexium than Prilosec.  PPIs have also increased the risk of fractures, particularly spine and wrist, especially if used for extended amounts of time.

Nutritional deficiencies have been known to occur too, especially with B-12 and magnesium deficits occurring. Nexium and Prilosec have also been linked to acute kidney damage and chronic kidney disease and even kidney failure, so you must weigh the benefits of these drugs against the risks.

Prilosec and Nexium are medications that should not be combined with other types of drugs.  Both types should avoid being used with pimozide, clopidogrel, rifampin, St. John’s Wort, and several others.  Customers and patients taking other medications should immediately tell their doctor to make sure that either Prilosec or Nexium can be taken with the other medications being used.

Prilosec and Nexium are two of the most popular PPIs on the market today.  Studies show that each has their strengths and weaknesses in battling GERD, assisting with ulcers, and preventing too much acid creation in the body.  Price is another factor that separates the two, as Nexium has been more expensive.

Both medications also may create some side effects that can be experienced, depending on how much the patient is taking and whether it is Nexium or Prilosec.  Customers should consider their type of lifestyle before taking either of these medications.  Weight, smoking, food quantity that is consumed, and many other factors will determine how effective either of these medicines will be.