Wednesday, February 15, 2012

Thursday, December 18, 2008 Christina asks

Q: used nexium for 4 yrs, will switch to prilosec - how will it effect me?

i been using nexium for 4 yrs, and due to insurance purposes have to switch over to prilosec.  my question is how will the drug change effect me? do they work similarly?  and what are the differences? 

 

thanks.

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Answers (2)
12/18/08 10:37pm

Nexium and Prilosec belong to the same class of medications - both are known as PPIs and work in the same way. The Prilosec should still work for you.

 

If you notice that it's not working as well, you can talk to your doctor about switching back to Nexium. Often, insurance companies will have a list of "preferred medications" (such as Prilosec in your case). The insurance won't pay for similar medications (such as Nexium)  that are not on the preferred list until AFTER you try the one that is preferred. If the Prilosec doesn't work for you, the doctor may be able to get what's called a "Prior Authorization" for Nexium through your insurance. Not all insurance offer this option, though, so be aware that it might not be possible.

 

Best of luck,

Casey

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8/ 8/11 12:36pm

I USED PRILOSEC AND DIDN'T WORK AS WELL AS NEXIUM.  MY ISN. COM. CON'T WAY FOR ANY GERD MED BY THE MANUFACTURER ON NEXIUM WILL ASSIST IN COST OR GET IT FREE

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