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Nexium Alternatives
There are several alternatives to Nexium (esomeprazole) if the medication is causing bothersome side effects or is not working as expected. These alternatives include a special diet, surgery, or other medications. Some of these possibilities are effective for certain conditions and not for others, so make sure to discuss your options with your healthcare provider before beginning treatment.
Nexium® (esomeprazole magnesium) is a prescription medication used for treating various conditions of the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. These conditions include ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and other similar problems. Nexium is not effective in all people, and some people may not be able to take this medication due to side effects or drug interactions. Also, the cost of Nexium is a problem for many people.
Fortunately, there are several alternatives to Nexium. Some of these possibilities include:
- Other medications
- Lifestyle and dietary changes
- Surgery.
Medications as Nexium Alternatives
There are several types of medications that can be used as an alternative. A few of the more common types include:
- Antacids and foaming agents -- These medications can be very helpful for symptoms of GERD or heartburn, but they are usually not strong enough to be used alone for the treatment of serious problems. These medications include:
- Alka-Seltzer®
- Maalox®
- Mylanta®
- Pepto-Bismol®
- Rolaids®
- Riopan®
- Tums®.
- H2 blocker medications -- This group of medications is newer than antacids and foaming agents, but older than proton-pump inhibitors. H2 blockers work to reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach by blocking histamine receptors. They work relatively quickly. These medications include:
- Cimetidine (Tagamet®)
- Famotidine (Pepcid®, Pepcid AC®)
- Nizatidine (Axid®)
- Ranitidine (Zantac®).
- Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) -- These are some of the most effective medications for GERD and related conditions. However, they typically take longer to work than other antacids or H2 blockers. Nexium is classified as a PPI. Other PPIs include:
- Lansoprazole (Prevacid®)
- Omeprazole (Prilosec®)
- Pantoprazole (Protonix®)
- Rabeprazole (Aciphex®).
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD