Thursday, February 28, 2008

Health Canada says no evidence of cardiac risk from Nexium, not clear for Losec

From the Canadian Press:
Health Canada says it finds no evidence to suggest a popular heartburn drug increases the risk of cardiac problems.

The department says it will continue to monitor safety data for Nexium (esomeprazole) as it is produced, but at this point does not see a link between the drug and cardiovascular risks.

But the department says the picture is less clear for another heartburn drug, Losec (omeprazole).

It says after a thorough analysis, Health Canada cannot definitively say if there is a potential for increased cardiovascular risk in people taking the drug on a long-term basis. ...more

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

My name is Jon Star and i would like to show you my personal experience with Nexium.

I am 34 years old. Great medicine. I only hope that I don't become dependant on it. But as my esphogus heals then maybe I'll be able to take an OTC PPI if my symtoms re-occur and I catch them ASAP! Can't wait for a generic. BLUE CROSS of MA won't pay for Nexium unless I start on generic Prilosec, then Protonix, then if both of those failed, they would pay for Nexium. I hate BLUE CROSS! My Dr. was great in giving me 7 weeks of samples when he heard this and Aztra-Zeneca gave me a 7-day coupon I re-deemed at my local pharmacy(with a written 7-day script from my Dr.)

No major side effect. Sometimes a feeling of indigestion/bloated, possibly due to low or no stomach acid as a result of a PPI. So, I am sure to chew my food well and not to eat large portions. I have introduced foods/drinks back into my diet, that before taking Nexium would otherwise bring-on reflux symtoms. Fruit juices and citric acid containing drinks still are bothersome. But, I've eaten Pizza, and am able to drink coffee/tea, both decaf(not to excess though.) A little at a time. I do not drink any alcohol! I still limit any food intake 3 hours before bedtime and try to sleep on my left side. Nexium has given me the greatest relief as compared to all OTC H2 and OTC PPI's. I'm on week 5 of an 8 week treatment.

I hope this information will be useful to others,
Jon Star