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Pepcid vs. Nexium

Are Pepcid and Nexium the Same Thing?

Pepcid (famotidine) and Nexium (esomeprazole magnesium) are used to treat and prevent recurrence of stomach and duodenal ulcers. Pepcid is also useful in managing heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

Pepcid and Nexium belong to different drug classes. Pepcid is an H2-blocker and Nexium is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).

Pepcid and Nexium are available over-the-counter (OTC) and in generic form.

What Are Possible Side Effects of Pepcid?

Common side effects of Pepcid include:

What Are Possible Side Effects of Nexium?

Common side effects of Nexium include:

  • diarrhea,
  • nausea,
  • vomiting,
  • stomach pain,
  • gas,
  • constipation,
  • headaches,
  • drowsiness,
  • dry mouth,
  • rash,
  • dizziness, and
  • nervousness.

What is Pepcid?

Pepcid (famotidine) is an H2-blocker used to treat and prevent recurrence of stomach and duodenal ulcers. Pepcid is also useful in managing heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux disease and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. Pepcid is available as a generic drug.

What is Nexium?

Nexium (esomeprazole magnesium) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that blocks acid production in the stomach and is used to treat stomach and duodenal ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

What Drugs Interact With Pepcid?

Pepcid may interact with atazanavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, or aspirin or other NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Tell your doctor all medications and supplements you use.

What Drugs Interact With Nexium?

Drug interactions include Valium (diazepam), Nizoral (ketoconazole), Lanoxin (digoxin), Invirase (saquinavir), Viracept (nelfinavir), Reyataz (atazanavir), Plavix (clopidogrel), and Pletal (cilostazol). Nexium should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed.

How Should Pepcid Be Taken?

Pepcid (famotidine) dosage depends on the condition being treated.

How Should Nexium Be Taken?

Nexium dosage depends on the condition being treated.

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