Nexium

About Nexium

In 2006, the Journal of the American Medical Association said that heavy use of AstraZeneca’s Nexium increases the risk of getting hip fractures among individuals over 50.

The proton pump inhibitor used in reducing the symptoms of heartburn works by stopping stomach wall enzymes in producing acid. Although this is a good thing when it comes to dealing with heartburn, the effects of the drug gradually prevents the body from absorbing essential nutrients and this includes nutrients such as calcium –a very vital vitamin that the body needs. The lack of calcium of course leads to weaker bones and an increased risk of getting hip fractures.

Because of this, Nexium is now considered as a defective drug and AstraZeneca may have to compensate individuals who experienced hip fractures because of this particular medication.

The results in the study on Nexium’s side effects showed that long term users of the drug have 44% higher chances of getting hip fractures especially those who are 50 and above. According to researchers and medical practitioners, this is not a mere coincidence.

There have been many pharmaceutical companies who were sued by individuals because of the adverse side effects of the medications these companies have produced and more often than not, drug companies usually do not inform medical practitioners and the general public about the dangers of using certain drugs.

Manufacturers of medications are burdened with a responsibility of ensuring the products they launch in the market are safe for use. Not giving full information about the adverse effects of a drug is considered as outright negligence.

By May 2010, the FDA required AstraZeneca and other drug companies that produce medications that cause bone fracture to have warnings. A study done by the FDA showed that the drug does not only cause hip fractures but spine and wrist fractures as well among other bone-related injuries. Other conditions caused by the drug include congenital fetal malformations, miscarriage, hydroencephaly and anencephaly.

Conditions Caused By Nexium

Side Effects & Symptoms

Warnings & Recalls

• Taking Nexium for a long period of time can increase the possibility of bone fractures.
• A number of individuals have complained about the adverse effects of the drug.
• Other proton pump inhibitors are also associated with bone fractures.

Cases, Settlements, & Verdicts

Helpful Information