Does Nexium have Aspirin in it? 

Does Nexium have Aspirin in it? 

No. Nexium (Esomeprazole) does not contain Aspirin. These are entirely different meds which have opposite effects on your gastrointestinal system. Nexium is an over-the-counter acid reducer, whereas Aspirin is an over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). 

Both Nexium and Aspirin work in different ways, are used for different therapeutic purposes and have different side effects profiles. 

More about Nexium 

Nexium is a Proton pump inhibitor (PPI), an OTC acid reducer. It basically blocks the secretion of acid in your stomach and relieves symptoms like acid reflux or heartburn, nausea, stomach pain, indigestion, burning sensation in your stomach, chest, or throat, etc (1). 

Nexium is quite good at what it does and is generally well tolerated. This medication does not cause many side effects, and most people really don’t feel a thing. Mild side effects of this medication include:

  • Dry mouth 
  • Mild drowsiness 
  • Constipation 
  • Diarrhoea 
  • Flatulence 

Some individuals may experience rare side effects like hair loss, weight gain, etc. However, some people could be allergic to this medication. If you find unusual hives or rash on your skin after taking Nexium, or you find it difficult to breathe, immediately seek medical attention. 

More about Aspirin

Aspirin is an OTC painkiller and anti-inflammatory medication. It can also be used for fever and to cause blood thinning in patients at risk of a heart attack (2). 

Aspirin inhibits Prostaglandin synthesis, which is an important mediator of pain and inflammation. Aspirin is commonly associated with the following side effects:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting 
  • Abdominal pain
  • Acid reflux 
  • Flatulence 

Aspirin may also cause some rare and serious side effects. 

  • An allergic reaction or hypersensitivity 
  • Arrhythmia or abnormal heartbeat
  • Irregular breathing 
  • Tremors 
  • Bloody vomiting 
  • Loss of hearing
  • Black or tarry stools – indicating gastrointestinal bleeding
  • Ulceration 

Make sure you reach out to your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual side effects from this medication. 

Final words

Both Nexium and Aspirin are different medications used for different purposes. Make sure you use the right one to manage your symptoms effectively. If you are not sure how to use these OTC medications, please carefully read the labels or ask your pharmacist. 

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References

1.-

PubChem [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US), National Center for Biotechnology Information; 2004-. PubChem Compound Summary for CID 9568614, Esomeprazole; [cited 2023 Mar. 04]. Available from: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Esomeprazole

2.-

PubChem [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US), National Center for Biotechnology Information; 2004-. PubChem Compound Summary for CID 2244, Aspirin; [cited 2023 Mar. 04]. Available from: https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Aspirin