Medically Reviewed by Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jun 28, 2022

Common Questions


Common Questions about Nexium (esomeprazole)


Is it OK to take Nexium every day?

Your doctor may prescribe Nexium once daily for 4-8 weeks or longer, depending on the clinical manifestations of your condition. You can take OTC Nexium once daily for 14 days. You can repeat the 14-day treatment once every 4 months. If your heartburn or GERD symptoms persist after a 14-day treatment of OTC Nexium, symptoms are getting worse, or symptoms return within 4 months, you should contact your healthcare provider. You should not take Nexium more than once a day. 



Is it better to take Nexium in the morning or at night?

You can take Nexium in the morning or at night. Remember that this medicine is absorbed better if you take it on an empty stomach. Therefore, if you take Nexium in the morning, make sure you take it one hour before a meal. If you take Nexium at bedtime, make sure you have not eaten for at least an hour before taking the medicine.



Can I buy Nexium 40 mg over the counter?

Nexium 24HR is available over the counter. However, OTC Nexium is only available in 20 mg capsules.



What’s better: Prilosec or Nexium?

Both Prilosec (omeprazole) and Nexium (esomeprazole) are proton pump inhibitors. They have a similar chemical structure, and both are effective in treating GERD and other conditions in which there is excessive stomach acid. Some randomized clinical trials have shown that Nexium may be more effective and may work faster than Prilosec.



How long does it take for Nexium to heal an ulcer?

The length of time it takes for an ulcer to heal depends on various factors such as the type of ulcer, severity, and location. Generally speaking, it takes 4-8 weeks of Nexium treatment to heal an ulcer.



What is the price of Nexium without insurance?

Without insurance, Nexium can be as high as $248.19 (generic), but with a free BuzzRx prescription discount coupon, you could pay as low as $18.71 for the most common version of this medication. Use the BuzzRx drug price look-up tool to find the lowest discounted price and be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity for the most accurate pricing. While generics tend to have the best savings, you can also use your BuzzRx card and coupons to purchase brand-name versions. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not. 



What is the price of Nexium with insurance?

Ask your pharmacist or insurance provider for your copay price on Nexium—Copay amounts vary depending on the type of insurance plan you have and if there is a deductible to reach before prescription drug coverage begins.

You could save up to 80% on your prescription medication with a free BuzzRx discount coupon for Nexiuml. When using the BuzzRx lookup tool to find the price of your medication, be sure to enter the correct dosage, form, and quantity to receive the most accurate discounted pricing. It never hurts to ask your pharmacist to try BuzzRx when filling or refilling any of your prescriptions—whether you have insurance or not.