Medicine Information

Exium

Name: Exium
Brand: Exium
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Capsule20 mgProton Pump Inhibitor (PPI)ATC: A02BC05

Generic Name

Esomeprazole

Manufacturer

Incepta Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
exium 20 mg capsule	৳ 9.00	৳ 90.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Exium 20 mg capsule contains Esomeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor that reduces the amount of acid produced in the stomach. It is used to treat acid-related diseases of the stomach and esophagus.

Uses & Indications

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

Healing of erosive esophagitis

Maintenance of healing of erosive esophagitis

Symptomatic GERD

Risk reduction of NSAID-associated gastric ulcers

H. pylori eradication (in combination with antibiotics)

Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome

Dosage

Adults

Typical dose for GERD is 20-40 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks. For H. pylori eradication, 20 mg twice daily for 7-10 days with antibiotics. For Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome, starting dose is 40 mg twice daily, adjusted as needed.

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment is generally required.

Renal_impairment

No dose adjustment is necessary for patients with impaired renal function.

How to Take

Take one capsule orally, preferably at least one hour before a meal. Swallow the capsule whole with water. Do not chew or crush.

Mechanism of Action

Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor that specifically inhibits the H+/K+-ATPase in the gastric parietal cells, thereby blocking the final step of acid secretion. This leads to a dose-dependent inhibition of both basal and stimulated gastric acid secretion.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Within 1 hour, full effect within 2-3 days.

Excretion

Mainly excreted in urine (approximately 80%) and feces (approximately 20%) as metabolites.

Half life

Approximately 1-1.5 hours.

Absorption

Rapidly absorbed after oral administration, peak plasma concentration reached within 1-2 hours.

Metabolism

Extensively metabolized in the liver by the cytochrome P450 system (primarily CYP2C19 and CYP3A4).

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to esomeprazole, substituted benzimidazoles, or any component of the formulation.
Concomitant use with nelfinavir.

Drug Interactions

Warfarin

May increase INR and prothrombin time.

Clopidogrel

May reduce the antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel.

Methotrexate

May increase and prolong plasma levels of methotrexate.

Nelfinavir, Atazanavir

Reduced plasma levels of antiretrovirals.

Drugs dependent on gastric pH for absorption (e.g., ketoconazole, iron salts, digoxin)

Absorption may be altered.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Experience with overdose is limited. Symptoms may include gastrointestinal disturbances, weakness, and central nervous system effects. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Esomeprazole is not readily dialyzable.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have shown no risk, but human data are limited. Use during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Esomeprazole is likely excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised when administered to a nursing woman.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 capsules/blister30 capsules/box

Shelf Life

Typically 24-36 months from the date of manufacture.

Availability

Available in all pharmacies

Approval Status

Approved by DGDA (Bangladesh)

Patent Status

Generic available

WHO Essential Medicine

Yes

Clinical Trials

Esomeprazole has undergone numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in various acid-related disorders. Studies have shown superior efficacy compared to some other PPIs in certain indications.

Lab Monitoring

No routine lab monitoring is required. In long-term use, magnesium levels may be monitored. For patients on warfarin, INR monitoring is recommended.

Doctor Notes

Ensure patient is aware of potential drug interactions, especially with clopidogrel and methotrexate.
Advise on lifestyle modifications to complement therapy.
Consider bone density screening for long-term PPI users.

Patient Guidelines

Take as directed by your doctor, preferably before a meal.
Swallow the capsule whole; do not chew or crush.
Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or persist.

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Driving Precautions

May cause dizziness or visual disturbances in some individuals. If affected, avoid driving or operating machinery.

Lifestyle Advice

Avoid foods and drinks that trigger heartburn (e.g., spicy foods, caffeine, fatty foods, alcohol).
Maintain a healthy weight.
Avoid lying down immediately after eating.
Quit smoking.