Nexium Now Approved for Children Ages 1-11

FDA Approves Nexium for Short-Term Use to Treat GERD in Children

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the approval of two forms of Nexium for short-term use in children ages 1-11. The FDA has not established the safety or effectiveness of Nexium in children less than one year old. Nexium (esomeprazole magnesium) is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The two approved forms of Nexium for children ages 1-11 are the delayed-release capsule and the liquid form in the following doses: 10 mg or 20 mg daily for children 1-11 years old. The FDA advises consumers that children aged 1-11 taking Nexium should be monitored by their doctor for any adverse side effects.

Nexium is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that is used to decrease acid produced by the stomach. It also helps heal the lining of the esophagus after acid backs up into the esophagus. The FDA approved Nexium for the treatment of GERD in children after studies were done showing that children treated with Nexium once a day for up to eight weeks healed their esophageal erosion. During the studies, Nexium was shown to be safe and tolerable in children ages 1-11. Common side effects children experienced while using Nexium included headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, gas, constipation, dry mouth, and sleepiness. AstraZeneca in Wilmington Delaware manufactures Nexium.

More About GERD

GERD occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter does not open or close properly during the digestive process, allowing stomach acids to back up into the esophagus. The stomach lining is equipped to withstand acid, but the esophagus lining is not. It is estimated that 19 million people in the U.S. may suffer from GERD and around 4.6 million doctors' visits each year are scheduled to discuss symptoms of GERD.

Symptoms of GERD

Almost everyone experiences heartburn from time to time. People who experience symptoms of GERD one or two days a week for a couple of weeks, you should seek medical attention. The symptoms of GERD vary among individuals, but can include:

Difficulty swallowing
Heartburn
Throwing up
Water brash - slightly salty or sour saliva