Nexium is a drug used to treat symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease and other diseases, in which gastric acid rises to the esophagus. Acid reflux is a common complaint during pregnancy, but pregnant women should not take Nexium without consulting their health care provider in advance, as the safety of the drug has not been fully established.
A pregnant woman is taking birth control pills. (Source: Antonio_Diaz / iStock / Getty Images) Acid reflux during pregnancy
There are several reasons for acid reflux during pregnancy. Pregnancy hormones release the valve at the bottom of the esophagus, allowing acid to escape from the stomach and into the food tube. As the pregnancy progresses, the uterus is oppressed, which exacerbates the stomach and forces its contents upward.
How Nexium works
Nexium works by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach. Its active ingredient is a drug called esomeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor. A proton pump is an acidogenic cell found on the lining of the stomach. Esomeprazole inhibits these cells and reduces the acid content in the stomach.
Safety
Although there is no evidence that Nexium will harm unborn children, its safety has not been 100% confirmed. Therefore, you and your healthcare provider need to carefully review the balance of risks and benefits in your case. For example, if your acid reflux is so severe that it damages the inner layer of your esophagus, you may want to take Nexium. Breastfeeding feedi Since women don't know if the drug passes through breast milk, women should not take Nexium.
Other remedies
Before considering using Nexium, try other simple, common-sense measures to alleviate acid reflux. Dr. Miriam Stoppard recommends that you eat less in Concepts, Pregnancy and Birth, often to avoid overcrowding the stomach. Avoid spicy and fatty foods. Stay upright - this can extend the chest and help relieve stomach pressure. Sleep while sleeping, drink a cup of soothing milk before going to bed.
