Nexium

Nexium is a proton pump inhibitor manufactured by AstraZeneca that is used to reduce the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, otherwise known as heartburn. A British study published in the December 2006 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association found prolonged and/or heavy use of Nexium increases the risk of hip fractures in individuals over 50 years old. Nexium works by blocking the enzyme in the stomach wall that produces stomach acid. The reduction of stomach acid can make it harder for the body to absorb some nutrients including calcium, which can lead to weakened bones and fractures.

As a result of this debilitating hip fracture side effect, Nexium can be considered a defective drug. Often drug companies are negligent and do not fully inform doctors and patients about these side effects. AstraZeneca may be required to compensate individuals who have suffered hip fractures due to Nexium. If you have experienced hip problems due to taking Nexium, you should contact Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz at (888) 255-2956 to learn more about your legal rights and the possibility of compensation.

Prilosec and Nexium

Many people confuse Prilosec and Nexium since they are manufactured by the same company and both are used to treat heartburn. Prilosec, with omeprazole as its active ingredient, was the first heartburn drug introduced and is now available over the counter. Nexium, with esomeprazole as its active ingredient, is similar to Prilosec but is only available with a prescription. Laboratory studies have discerned very little difference between the effectiveness of omeprazole and esomeprazole. The only way these two active ingredients differ is esomeprazole is an s-isomer of omeprazole, which means on an atomic level, the atoms are connected the same but their arrangement in space is different. Nexium is currently only available to adults, while Prilosec is approved for adults and children two years or older.

Side Effects of Nexium

The British study analyzed 145,000 different users of proton pump inhibitors including Nexium. The results showed a 44% increase in the risk of hip fractures for individuals over the age of 50. The study also showed that long term, high dose users had a two and a half times greater risk of hip fractures than non-users. Men pose a greater risk than women for hip fractures, since women typically have a diet higher in calcium, which offsets some of the concerns associated with prolonged use of Nexium.

AstraZeneca claims the increased risk of hip fractures in patients taking Nexium is nothing more than a coincidence. Drug manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure their products are safe for public consumption. AstraZeneca’s disregard for their consumers’ well-being has made them potentially liable for any hip fracture facilitated by taking Nexium. The Law Offices of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz boast some of the most experienced personal injury attorneys in the United States. Contact the attorneys of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis & Overholtz today at (888) 255-2956 to learn more about your rights if you have suffered a hip fracture while taking Nexium.