Side effects of esomeprazole

These common side effects of esomeprazole happen in more than 1 in 100 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:

Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. It's best not to drink too much alcohol. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller, or talk to your doctor if they do not go away or are severe.

Try taking esomeprazole with or after a meal or snack. It may also help if you do not eat rich or spicy food while you're taking this medicine.

Take small, frequent sips of water to avoid dehydration. Signs of dehydration include peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee.

If you take the combined pill or the progestogen-only pill and you're being sick your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet for advice.

Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or squash, to prevent dehydration. Speak to a pharmacist if you have signs of dehydration, such as peeing less than usual or having dark, strong-smelling pee.

If the diarrhoea does not get better, talk to your doctor.

If you take the combined pill or the progestogen-only pill and you have severe, watery diarrhoea, or any diarrhoea that lasts for more than 24 hours, your contraception may not protect you from pregnancy. Check the pill packet for advice.

Get more fibre into your diet such as fresh fruit and vegetables and cereals, and drink plenty of water. Try to exercise regularly, for example, by going for a daily walk or run. If this does not help, talk to your pharmacist or doctor.

Try to rest and relax. It can help to eat and drink slowly and have smaller and more frequent meals. Putting a heat pad or covered hot water bottle on your stomach may also help. If you are in a lot of pain, speak to your pharmacist or doctor.

Try to avoid foods that cause farting, like pulses, lentils, beans and onions. It might help to eat smaller meals more frequently, eat and drink slowly, and exercise regularly. Some pharmacy remedies, such as simeticone, may improve the problem.

Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and a side effect is still bothering you or does not go away.