In this Article

• What is esomeprazole and naproxen (Vimovo)?
• What are the possible side effects of esomeprazole and naproxen (Vimovo)?
• What is the most important information I should know about esomeprazole and naproxen (Vimovo)?
• What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking esomeprazole and naproxen (Vimovo)?
• How should I take esomeprazole and naproxen (Vimovo)?
• What happens if I miss a dose (Vimovo)?
• What happens if I overdose (Vimovo)?
• What should I avoid while taking esomeprazole and naproxen (Vimovo)?
• What other drugs will affect esomeprazole and naproxen (Vimovo)?
• Where can I get more information?

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking esomeprazole and naproxen (Vimovo)?

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to esomeprazole (Nexium) or naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox, Naprosyn, and others), or if you have ever had a severe allergic reaction to aspirin or other NSAIDs.

Do not use esomeprazole and naproxen just before or after heart bypass surgery (coronary artery bypass graft, or CABG).

The naproxen in this medicine may cause life-threatening heart or circulation problems such as heart attack or stroke, especially if you use it long term.

Naproxen may also cause serious effects on the stomach or intestines, including bleeding or perforation (forming of a hole). These conditions can be fatal and can occur without warning while you are taking esomeprazole and naproxen, especially in older adults.

To make sure you can safely take esomeprazole and naproxen, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:

• liver or kidney disease;
• heart disease, high blood pressure, fluid retention, or a history of stroke, heart attack, or congestive heart failure;
• low levels of magnesium in your blood;
• a bleeding or blood clotting disorder, such as hemophilia;
• a history of stomach ulcer, stomach bleeding, or intestinal disorder (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis);
• asthma, or a history of allergic reaction to aspirin, especially aspirin triad syndrome; or
• if you smoke.

Taking esomeprazole may increase your risk of bone fracture in the hip, wrist, or spine. This effect has occurred mostly in people who have taken the medication long term or at high doses, and in those who are age 50 and older. It is not clear whether esomeprazole is the actual cause of an increased risk of fracture. Tell your doctor if you have osteoporosis or osteopenia (low bone mineral density).

FDA pregnancy category D. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment. Taking naproxen during the last 3 months of pregnancy may result in birth defects. Do not take esomeprazole and naproxen during pregnancy unless your doctor has told you to.

Naproxen can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while taking esomeprazole and naproxen.

How should I take esomeprazole and naproxen (Vimovo)?

Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

Esomeprazole and naproxen is usually taken 2 times each day, at least 30 minutes before a meal. Follow your doctor's instructions.

Take this medication with a full glass of water.

Do not crush, chew, or break an enteric coated pill. Swallow it whole. The enteric coated pill has a special coating to protect your stomach. Breaking the pill will damage this coating.

To be sure this medication is not causing harmful effects, your blood may need to be tested often. Your blood pressure and kidney or liver function may also need to be tested. You may also need eye exams if you have any changes in your vision. Visit your doctor regularly.

This medication can cause unusual results with certain medical tests. Tell any doctor who treats you that you are using esomeprazole and naproxen.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light.