Esomeprazole GR 20mg

£22.49

Esomeprazole GR 20 mg tablets reduces excess stomach acid to relieve reflux, ulcer symptoms and support mucosal healing. Contains 20 mg esomeprazole. Prescription only.

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Description

Esomeprazole GR 20 mg is a prescription acid‑suppression therapy designed to relieve gastrointestinal conditions caused by excess stomach acid, such as gastro‑oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), peptic ulcers, and corrosive oesophagitis.

How It Works

Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). It targets and blocks the hydrogen‑potassium ATPase enzyme system on the surface of parietal cells in the stomach lining. By doing so, it significantly reduces the secretion of gastric acid. This mechanism helps alleviate symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, epigastric pain, and supports healing of acid‑related lesions.

Why Choose Esomeprazole GR 20 mg

Esomeprazole is the S‑isomer of omeprazole, offering more consistent acid suppression and a longer duration of action.  A single 20 mg dose maintains high gastric pH for 24 hours, and many patients report improved symptom control compared to other short‑acting antacids.

Important Note

This medicine should be used for **short‑term therapy** (4–8 weeks) in uncomplicated GORD. If symptoms persist, medical review is required as further investigation may be necessary. Long‑term use may affect mineral and vitamin B12 absorption. There is an increased risk of gastric bacterial overgrowth, and patients should report any prolonged diarrhoea. Avoid concomitant use with such treatments as clopidogrel without medical advice. Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption may reduce its effectiveness.
POM

Packaging and branding may vary depending on supplier.

Directions

Always read and follow the patient information leaflet (PIL) provided with the medicine before use.

  • Who: Adults only unless advised

  • Dosage: One capsule (20 mg) once daily for 4–8 weeks, or as directed

  • How to take:

    • Take at least 30 minutes before a meal

    • Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water

    • Do not chew or crush

  • Safety tips:

    • Avoid lying down for 30 minutes after

    • If a dose is missed, take once remembered––do not double doses

  • Storage:

    • Store below 25 °C

    • Keep in original container, protected from moisture/light

    • Keep out of children’s reach

    • Dispose safely via pharmacy take‑back schemes

Ingredients

  • Active Ingredient: Esomeprazole 20 mg (as gastro‑resistant granules)

  • Inactive Ingredients: Hypromellose, mannitol, crospovidone, polysorbate 80, magnesium stearate, titanium dioxide

Side Effects

Common side effects:

  • Headache

  • Abdominal pain

  • Diarrhoea or constipation

  • Flatulence

  • Nausea

Serious side effects (rare):

  • Severe skin reactions

  • Signs of low magnesium (dizziness, muscle cramps, irregular heartbeat)

  • Clostridioides difficile‑associated diarrhoea

  • Vitamin B12 deficiency

If you notice any symptoms, contact your GP or healthcare professional.

Warnings

  • Avoid if:

    • Allergic to esomeprazole or other PPIs

  • Use caution with:

    • Low magnesium, osteoporosis, liver impairment, enteric infections

  • Age restrictions: Adults only

  • Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Use only if benefits outweigh risks—consult your doctor

  • Interactions: Includes clopidogrel, warfarin, digoxin, ketoconazole, methotrexate, HIV protease inhibitors, and some antiretrovirals

  • Esomeprazole can interact with other drugs like clopidogrel, digoxin, and certain antifungals. Always consult your pharmacist or doctor before combining it with other medications.
  • Esomeprazole GR should be taken at least 30 minutes before food to ensure proper activation in the stomach.
  • Esomeprazole GR often begins reducing stomach acid within one hour of taking it, with full effect typically seen within 2–4 days.
  • Evidence indicates short‑term use is generally safe. Still, you should speak to your healthcare provider before using it while pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • Daily use is common for short‑term treatment (up to 4–8 weeks). Long‑term use requires periodic medical review due to potential nutrient absorption issues.