Nexium, also called esomeprazole is a proton-pump inhibitor that reduces the amount of acid produced in the stomach, according to the National Institutes of Health. Nexium is prescribed for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, in children and in adults, as well as to treat or prevent stomach ulcers. The medication is manufactured as a delayed-release capsule in two strengths--20 mg and 40 mg, and as a delayed-release oral suspension in three strengths--10 mg, 20 mg and 40 mg, according to RxList. The health care provider will determine dosage based on the patient's age, weight and diagnosis.
Oral Suspension 10 Mg
The lowest strength of Nexium, 10 mg, is supplied as an delayed-release oral suspension only, according to RxList. The 10 mg packets are prescribed for patients between the ages of one and 11 years old who have GERD, and for those weighing less than 44 lbs. who have erosive esophagitis. Nexium oral suspension is not recommended for children less than one year old.The medication can be given by mouth or through a feeding tube by mixing the packet of granules with 15 ml of water and allowing it to thicken for two to three minutes. The medication is given once a day for up to eight weeks.
Capsule or Oral Suspension 20 Mg
Nexium 20 mg is available in delayed-release capsules and delayed-release oral suspension, according to RxList. It is suitable for the treatment of GERD in pediatric patients ages 12 to 17, and for healing of erosive esophagitis in those who weigh more than 44 lbs. It is also recommended for adults with GERD, as well as for prevention of gastric ulcer in patients taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. The 20 mg capsule may be swallowed whole, opened and mixed with applesauce, or emptied into a syringe for administration through a feeding tube. The course of treatment is usually once a day for up to eight weeks, but it may be taken for as long as six months for gastric ulcer risk reduction.
Capsule or Oral Suspension 40 Mg
The 40 mg strength of Nexium is available as a delayed-release capsule and as an oral suspension, according to RxList. It is prescribed for GERD or ulcer prevention in patients at least 12 years old. Patients taking high doses of proton pump inhibitors, including Nexium, are at risk for fractures, so the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has urged health care providers to prescribe a lower dose if possible, according to the National Institutes of Health.
