A group of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), which are: Nexium (Esomeprazole), Prilosec (Omeprazole), Prevacid (Lansoprazole), Aciphex (Rabeprazole), and Protonix (Pantoprazole), are used to treat GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease (GERD or heartburn), erosive esophagitis, and other conditions involving excessive stomach acid production.

The esophagus (also spelled oesophagus) is the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. The esophagus is also called gullet. It carries food, liquids, and saliva from the mouth to the stomach.

Erosive Esophagitis is inflammation, irritation, and swelling of the esophagus. The lining of the esophagus becomes inflamed because of an infection or something that has irritated the lining. It is usually caused by gastroesophageal reflux. Gastroesophageal reflux is the backflow of acid and food particles that seep out of the stomach and up into the esophagus.

Almost everyone experiences gastroesophageal reflux at some time, commonly known as "heartburn" or acid indigestion. Frequent heartburn (episodes occurring from several times a week to several times a day) may be associated with a more severe condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

In some people, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause Erosive Esophagitis. Erosive Esophagitis can occasionally cause * ulcers. Esophageal damage caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may lead to even more serious complications. If left untreated, esophagitis can cause severe discomfort, swallowing difficulty to the extent of causing * malnutrition or * dehydration, and eventual scarring and narrowing of the esophagus. This scarring can lead to a * esophageal stricture and food or medications may not be able to pass through to the stomach.

Rarely, a condition called Barrett's Esophagus can develop, which can lead to cancer of the esophagus.

Definitions For This Page - In Alphabetical Order

* Dehydration
Pronounced - DEE-hy-DRAY-shuhn
Excessive loss of water from the body or from an organ or body part, as from illness or fluid deprivation.

* Esophageal Stricture
Pronounced - eh-saw-fuh-JEE-ul STRIK-sher
A narrowing of the esophagus often caused by acid flowing back from the stomach. This condition may require surgery.

* Malnutrition
Poor nutrition because of an insufficient or poorly balanced diet or faulty digestion or utilization of foods.

* Ulcer
Pronounced - UL-sur
A sore on the skin surface or on the stomach lining.

Proton Pump Inhibitors

Nexium - Esomeprazole Aciphex - Rabeprazole Prevacid - Lansoprazole Prilosec - Omeprazole Prilosec OCT Protonix - Pantoprazole

Body Mass Index (BMI)

Body Mass Index (BMI) is a tool that is used to determine if you are at a healthy weight, overweight, or obese, and whether your health is at risk due to your weight.
Body Mass Index Calculator & Chart

GastroEsophageal Reflux Disease - GERD

What is GERD? Causes of GERD Diet for GERD Infant GERD Children 1 - 11 Years Old Medication for GERD Symptoms of GERD GERD Surgery GERD Treatment

Heartburn Information

What is Heartburn? Causes of Heartburn Symptoms of Heartburn Heartburn Medications Heartburn Remedy

Ulcers

What is an Ulcer? Ulcer Causes and Risks Symptoms of Ulcers Treatment of Ulcers Ulcers & NSAIDs

Articles

Can Flatulence Be Controlled? Lump In Throat Proton Pump Inhibitors Remedies for GERD

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The information discussed above is a general overview and does not include all the facts, or include everything there is to know about any medicine and/or products mentioned. Do not use any medicine and/or products without first talking to your doctor. Possible side effects of medications, other than those listed, may occur. Other brand names or generic forms of this medicine may also be available. If you have questions or concerns, or want more information, your doctor or pharmacist has the complete prescribing information about this medicine and possible drug interactions.