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Nexium 40 mg vs Prilosec 20 mg OTC

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Posted 9/22/2012 1:46 AM (GMT 0)
I switched to OTC Prilosec 20 mg from presc. Nexium 40 mg few months ago with the help of diet change. I switched to half dose PPI (20 --> 40 mg) because I want to avoid the long-term side effects of Nexium. My thought process was that I can reduce the chances of side effects by reducing the dose to of PPI.

Lately, I have been having some constipation like issues. However, whenever I switch back to Nexium, my constipation symptoms go away. But constipation comes back when I take Prilosec.

I went to see a GI, and I explained to him my situation. Right off the bat, he told me to switch back to Nexium. He said that 20mg Prilosec has the same effects as 40 mg Nexium has , so there are no benefits of taking Prilosec than taking Nexium as far as side effects are concerned. Furthermore, he said he has not seen in his practice anyone with side effects of Nexium.

He kind of blew my theory away. I still can't believe that 40 mg Nexium and 20 mg Prilosec have same side effects.

What is your experience/oppinion?
Posted 10/29/2012 2:38 AM (GMT 0)
I don't think there are the same side effects. Nexium is considered stronger even though it is closely related to Prilosec. I do not think you should switch back to Nexium after getting this far weaning yourself off. For the constipation there are a lot of things you can do like more fiber or OTC medicines. You haven't posted in a while so I wonder how your taper off is going?

Marie
Posted 10/30/2012 4:33 PM (GMT 0)

Adam77 said...
Furthermore, he said he has not seen in his practice anyone with side effects of Nexium.

I'm not sure I believe this part. Is he a new doctor?
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