Difference between Aciphex and Nexium
Aciphex vs Nexium:
While these two drug names are used interchangeably, they are indeed two different drugs which are prescribed for the same condition of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Yet, it is important that one knows and recognizes the differences between these two drugs in order for them to be used effectively.
What is Aciphex?
Aciphex, also known as rabeprazole sodium, is a proton-pump inhibitor which is prescribed for short-term treatment of symptomatic gastroesophageal reflux disease. Aciphex helps reduce the acid amount that is produced by the stomach and is therefore considered as an effective remedy for persistent heartburn and other symptoms associated with acid reflux disease. Common side effects which can be caused by ACiphex can be listed down as pain, sore throat, gas, infection, and constipation in addition to occasional headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain in adolescents. While Aciphex is not recommended for children under 12 years, the recommended dose of Aciphex is considered as 20 milligrams daily and the pill is required to be swallowed whole.
What is Nexium?
Nexium, also known as esomeprazole but more commonly referred to as the “purple pill, is a proton-pump inhibitor which is prescribed for dyspepsia, peptic ulcer disease (PUD), GERD, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome and also for symptoms such as heartburn, sour taste, upset stomach, chest pains not associated with the heart and persistent cough which are directly associated with the gastroesophageal reflux disease. Nexium is prescribed for up to 8 weeks of short term treatment for GERD for children under 18 years while it is not recommended for children under one year. While the prescribed dose of Nexium is 20 to 40 milligrams daily, the side effects of this drug could be listed as headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, and sleepiness.
What is the difference between Nexium and Aciphex?
While both drugs are prescribed for short term treatment of GERD and both drugs belong to H2-blockers class, Aciphex is known to contain rabeprazole whereas Nexium contains esomeprazole. Also, the biggest difference between the two drugs maybe their price range. Whereas both Acipex and Nexium have savings plans which deliver some relief, Aciphex will offer a $35 savings plan while Nexium offers $50 in savings on a total of 12 refills if in case the co-pay weighs at more than $25.
Also, the drugs are different in terms of their dosages as well. While the prescribed dosage of Aciphex is 20 milligrams daily, the prescribed dosage of Nexium is 20 to 40 milligrams. Also, while the treatment period of Aciphex can go up to 12 months, Nexium is prescribed for up to 8 weeks of short term treatment of GERD.
Also, Acipex is typically used for GERD treatment whereas Nexium is used for the treatment of other diseases such as dyspepsia, peptic ulcer disease (PUD), GERD, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome as well. While Aciphex is not recommended for children unde 12 years of age, Nexium is considered as a safe option for children under 12 years but over the age of 1.
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