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Nexium Side Effects

Generic name: esomeprazole

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 19, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Nexium Side Effects associated with esomeprazole. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Nexium.

Applies to esomeprazole: oral capsule delayed release, oral packet, oral tablet delayed release.

Other dosage forms:

Common side effects of Nexium

Some side effects of esomeprazole may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

  • bad, unusual, or unpleasant (after) taste
  • change in taste

Less common

  • sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

Rare

  • acne
  • back pain

Incidence not known

  • agitation
  • decreased interest in sexual intercourse
  • excess air or gas in the stomach or bowels
  • full feeling
  • inability to have or keep an erection
  • increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight
  • loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance
  • loss or thinning of the hair
  • muscular weakness
  • passing gas
  • redness or other discoloration of the skin
  • seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there
  • severe sunburn
  • swelling of the breasts or breast soreness in both females and males
  • swelling or inflammation of the mouth
  • swollen joints

Serious side effects of Nexium

Along with its needed effects, esomeprazole (the active ingredient contained in Nexium) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking esomeprazole:

Incidence not known

  • black, tarry stools
  • blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin
  • bloating
  • chest pain or tightness
  • chills
  • confusion
  • constipation
  • cough
  • darkened urine
  • decreased urine
  • difficulty with swallowing
  • dizziness
  • drowsiness
  • dry mouth
  • fast heartbeat
  • fever
  • indigestion
  • joint or muscle pain
  • loss of appetite
  • mood or mental changes
  • muscle cramps in the hands, arms, feet, legs, or face
  • muscle spasms (tetany) or twitching
  • nausea
  • numbness and tingling around the mouth, fingertips, or feet
  • painful or difficult urination
  • pains in the stomach, side, or abdomen, possibly radiating to the back
  • puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
  • red skin lesions, often with a purple center
  • red, irritated eyes
  • seizures
  • skin rash, hives, itching
  • sore throat
  • sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips
  • stomach cramps
  • swollen glands
  • trouble breathing
  • trembling
  • unusual bleeding or bruising
  • unusual tiredness or weakness
  • vomiting
  • yellow eyes or skin

For healthcare professionals

Applies to esomeprazole: intravenous powder for injection, oral delayed release capsule, oral delayed release tablet, oral powder for reconstitution delayed release.

General

The most frequently occurring adverse reactions were headache and diarrhea.

The most frequently reported adverse reactions for patients who received triple therapy for 10 days were diarrhea, taste perversion, and abdominal pain.[Ref]

Nervous system

Gastrointestinal

Respiratory

Other

Dermatologic

Cardiovascular

Musculoskeletal

An increased risk of hip fracture has been reported in a cohort study. The risk was significantly increased among patients prescribed long-term high PPIs.[Ref]

Endocrine

Local

Immunologic

Hepatic

Ocular

Psychiatric

Hematologic

Metabolic

Hypersensitivity

Renal

Genitourinary

References

1. (2001) "Product Information. Nexium (esomeprazole)." Astra-Zeneca Pharmaceuticals

2. Cerner Multum, Inc. "UK Summary of Product Characteristics."

3. Cerner Multum, Inc. "Australian Product Information."

4. (2014) "Product Information. NexIUM I.V. (esomeprazole)." Astra-Zeneca Pharmaceuticals

5. (2014) "Product Information. Esomeprazole Strontium (esomeprazole)." Amneal Pharmaceuticals

Frequently asked questions

Further information

Nexium side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.