is generic nexium available

Is Generic Nexium Available?

Nexium has been touted as a wonder drug for GERD. However, its current version is far too expensive. Let us find out whether generic Nexium is available, in this Buzzle article.

Currently, a generic form of Nexium is not available! It is a drug manufactured by a company named AstraZeneca. This drug is known to effectively treat several ailments, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) being the most important one. The drug has been patented to AstraZeneca, hence, only this company is licensed to sell it. Due to its effectiveness in treating GERD and various other stomach ulcers, common people are often interested in knowing how Nexium works, is its generic form available, and what are its substitutes, if any. There are many legal battles going on between the pioneer company AstraZeneca and the manufacturers of generic drugs. Besides, there are several patents for this drug. The first of these patents is due, to expire in 2014. Hence, currently, there is no hope of getting generic Nexium. Also, the ongoing legal battle will take several years to get settled. By this time, new lawsuits will keep on adding to the existing one. In short, the chances of getting generic Nexium in near future look very bleak. How Does Nexium Work GERD, commonly known as acid reflux disease or heartburn, is a disease, in which, the stomach acids are regurgitated back in the esophagus. The acid also prevents healing of stomach ulcers, peptic ulcers, etc. Nexium acts as a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI). The action of this drug is directly targeted at the enzymes producing the acids. By blocking the enzymes, the drug reduces the acid production. As a result, there is no incidence of acid flowing back in the esophagus. This also helps stomach ulcers and peptic ulcers to heal completely. Thus, Nexium can be effectively used to treat all these conditions. Substitutes for Nexium Currently, Nexium is available only with a prescription, and that too, at a very high price. If your medical condition does not demand exclusive use of Nexium, or you suffer from any side effects of this drug, then you may want to consider other options. As mentioned before, Nexium belongs to the class of drugs known as Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI). Hence, you may use other drugs in the same class for treating your individual condition. The other drugs that can be used as substitutes for this drug are:
  • Pantoprazole (Protonix®)
  • Lansoprazole (Prevacid®)
  • Rabeprazole (AcipHex®)
  • Omeprazole (Prilosec®)
  • Omeprazole and Sodium Bicarbonate
  • Zegerid®
  • Dexlansoprazole (Dexilant®)
Besides, the above prescription drugs, over the counter substitutes for Nexium are also available, which are as follows:
  • Prevacid®
  • Prilosec OTC®
  • Zegerid OTC™
The substitutes for Nexium mentioned in this article should be consumed with the proper knowledge of a physician. Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only and does not, in any way, intend to replace the advice of a medical professional.

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