What is the brand name for Esomeprazole?
The brand name for Esomeprazole is Nexium.
PTCE Top 200 · #147
Esomeprazole
Nexium
Esomeprazole is the generic name for the brand-name drug Nexium. It is a ppi (proton pump inhibitor) used to treat GERD, ulcers. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Esomeprazole ranks #147 and is one of the most frequently tested gastrointestinal medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Esomeprazole |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Nexium |
| Drug class | PPI (proton pump inhibitor) |
| Class group | Gastrointestinal |
| Common use | GERD, ulcers |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Both prescription and OTC |
What is Esomeprazole used for?
Treatment of GERD, erosive esophagitis, and other acid-related disorders; prevention of NSAID-associated gastric ulcer in at-risk patients (PPI).
What drug class is Esomeprazole?
Esomeprazole is a PPI (proton pump inhibitor) in the Gastrointestinal group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Esomeprazole
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightDiarrhea
- arrow_rightAbdominal pain
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightFlatulence
Major interactions
- arrow_rightClopidogrel: reduced activation with some PPIs (use caution/alternatives per guidance)
- arrow_rightDrugs needing acidic pH (e.g., ketoconazole) → reduced absorption
- arrow_rightWarfarin, methotrexate (high dose) → potential increased levels (monitor)
- arrow_rightCYP2C19 interactions may affect some drugs
Is Esomeprazole a controlled substance?
No. Esomeprazole is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Esomeprazole (PTCE mnemonic)
NEX-ium goes NEXt level on acid — esomepra-ZOLE is the S-isomer of omeprazole (slightly stronger). 30 min before meals; long-term ↓Mg/B12, ↑C. diff, fractures.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Esomeprazole is literally the S-isomer of omeprazole ('es-') — isomer brand pairs like Nexium/Prilosec and Lexapro/Celexa are a recurring exam pattern.
Esomeprazole FAQ
What is Esomeprazole used for?
Esomeprazole is used to treat GERD, ulcers. Treatment of GERD, erosive esophagitis, and other acid-related disorders; prevention of NSAID-associated gastric ulcer in at-risk patients (PPI).
What drug class is Esomeprazole?
Esomeprazole is a PPI (proton pump inhibitor) (Gastrointestinal group).
Is Esomeprazole a controlled substance?
No. Esomeprazole is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Gastrointestinal group
Drill Esomeprazole the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).