Nexium contains esomeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor that reduces excess stomach acid. It is used for acid reflux, heartburn, indigestion and to help heal inflammation of the oesophagus. By lowering acid production, Nexium eases burning symptoms and prevents acid from irritating the throat and chest.

Some people notice improvement within a few hours, but the full effect usually develops after two to four days of continuous use. Nexium is designed for sustained acid control rather than immediate relief, so antacids may be helpful during the first few days while it builds up.

Nexium is best taken once daily, ideally in the morning, about 30 minutes before eating. Swallow the capsule whole with water and avoid crushing or chewing it. Taking it at the same time each day provides better control of acid levels and more reliable symptom relief.

Nexium may cause headache, stomach discomfort, diarrhoea, constipation, nausea or wind. These usually settle as your body adjusts. Rare side effects include dizziness or low magnesium levels. If symptoms persist or worsen, a clinician can review your treatment.

Nexium can be used long term when reviewed regularly. Long-term PPI use may affect magnesium, calcium or vitamin B12 levels, so your prescriber will ensure you remain on the lowest effective dose. Lifestyle adjustments can reduce the need for ongoing treatment.

Nexium may be unsuitable for people with severe liver problems, unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing or signs of stomach bleeding. Safety should also be checked in those taking regular medication or managing long-standing digestive conditions.

Yes. Nexium may interact with medicines such as diazepam, phenytoin, warfarin, methotrexate, HIV treatments and antifungals. It can also affect absorption of medicines that require stomach acid. Always disclose your full medication list before starting Nexium.

Nexium may work slightly faster or feel stronger for some people because esomeprazole has slightly higher bioavailability than omeprazole. In practice, effectiveness varies from person to person. Some respond better to Nexium, others to lansoprazole or pantoprazole. A clinician can help decide which PPI is best for your symptoms.

Yes. Nexium can help reduce night-time symptoms, although morning dosing is usually preferred. For night-time breakthrough, a clinician may suggest adjusting the timing, increasing the dose or combining treatment with lifestyle changes such as elevating your head and avoiding late meals.

Yes. Nexium provides long-lasting acid control, while Gaviscon, Rennie or Peptac give quick relief. Many people use both, especially during the first few days of treatment. Leave a two-hour gap between antacids and Nexium to avoid interfering with absorption.

Nexium can appear less effective if doses are missed, taken with food or taken inconsistently. Triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, weight changes or late meals can also worsen symptoms. A clinician may review your timing, increase your dose or trial a different PPI.

Nexium can help reduce acid reaching the throat, improving irritation, hoarseness or chronic throat clearing. Improvement may take several weeks. Silent reflux also responds well to lifestyle measures such as avoiding tight clothing, reducing late-night eating and moderating trigger foods.

Nexium is sometimes used in pregnancy when symptoms are significant, but milder options such as antacids or alginates are usually tried first. It is usually considered safe during breastfeeding, although suitability must be assessed individually.

Many people use Nexium for 2–8 weeks before stepping down. Stopping suddenly can cause rebound acid, so a gradual reduction or switching to an H2 blocker may help. A clinician can tailor a plan based on your symptoms.

The dose or timing may need adjusting. A clinician may switch you to a different PPI, combine treatment with alginates or explore other causes such as dietary triggers, weight changes or stress. Persistent symptoms should always be assessed.