Both, Protonix i.e. pantoprazole and Nexium i.e. esomeprazole are PPIs or proton pump inhibitors. PPIs suppress the activities of the proton pump and thus help inhibit stomach acid. Protonix and nexium are drugs which have been approved by the FDA or Food and Drug Administration of US for treating varied conditions such as GERD or gastro-esophageal reflux disease, erosive esophagitis, Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, and infection by Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
- Additional uses of Nexium: In addition to the above mentioned conditions, nexium has also been approved for treating NSAID-associated gastric ulcers and pathological hyper-secretory disorders.
- Additional uses of Protonix: In addition to the above listed conditions, protonix is also approved for ulcer prevention and for treating gastric ulcers, duodenal ulcers, and peptic ulcers.
Protonix vs. Nexium: Duration of treatment
- The main difference between nexium and protonix is probably the recommended duration of therapy. Nexium is typically prescribed to be used over a short-term period, though doctors may also opt for longer durations. On the other hand, protonix is usually suggested as a long-term treatment option.
- Also, protonix can be consumed at any time, while nexium has to be consumed an hour before meals.
Side effects of protonix
This drug has good tolerance levels amongst patients. Some of the reported side effects include diarrhea, increased salivation, nausea, flatulence, vomiting, pain in abdomen, anorexia, belching, dry mouth, constipation, gingivitis,dyspepsia, bad breath,ulcerative colitis, irregular stools, stomach ulcer,increased appetite, discolorationof tongue, hernia,chest pain, headache, neck pain, insomnia, and back pain. Patients may also suffer from other side effects not listed above.
Side effects of nexium
Nexium has been observed to have more side effects as compared to protonix. Some of the observed and reported side effects includetachycardia, constipation, migraines, dyspepsia, drowsiness, epigastric pain, tremor,gastroenteritis, vertigo, excessive appetite, hypertension,increased thirst,anorexia, chest pain, vomiting, joint pain,pancreatitis, muscle pain,confusion, cramps,dizziness, hernia, insomnia, anemia,abnormal vision, vaginitis, vitamin B12 deficiency,confusion, changes in weight, depression, impotence, nervousness, dysmenorrhea, asthma, fever, sinusitis, ringing of the ears, fatigue, and conjunctivitis. Patients may also suffer from other side effects not listed above.
