The physician has prescribed esomeprazole (Nexium) for a client with erosive gastritis. The nurse should administer the medication:
A. 30 minutes before meals
B. With each meal
C. In a single dose at bedtime
D. 30 minutes after meals
Correct Answer: A. 30 minutes before meals
Proton pump inhibitors reduce the production of acid in the stomach. Proton pump inhibitors work best when they are taken 30 minutes before the first meal of the day. Take each dose with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. Esomeprazole is usually given for 4 to 8 weeks only. The doctor may recommend a second course of treatment if the client needs additional healing time.
Option B: It should be taken only once every day. Esomeprazole is used to treat symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid such as Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Esomeprazole is also used to promote the healing of erosive esophagitis (damage to the esophagus caused by stomach acid).
Option C: The medicine would not work on its best if taken at bedtime. Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by the doctor. Swallow the pill whole and do not crush, chew, break, or open it. Esomeprazole is not for immediate relief of heartburn symptoms.
Option D: Proton pump inhibitors are best taken before the first meal of the day to an empty stomach. Esomeprazole may also be given to prevent gastric ulcer caused by infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), or by the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).