Nexium 10mg DR Pwdr Pkt For Susp-30
It is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD; acid reflux).It is used to treat heartburn.It is used to treat or prevent GI (gastrointestinal) ulcers caused by infection.It is used to treat or prevent ulcers of the esophagus.It is used to treat syndromes caused by lots of stomach acid.It is used to treat or prevent nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID)- associated gastric ulcers in patients with a history of ulcers. Examples of NSAIDs include ibuprofen and naproxen.It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
Drug Class
Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI)
Pharmacologic Class
Gastric Acid Secretion Inhibitor
Pregnancy Category
Category B
FDA Approved
Feb 2001
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Esomeprazole is a medicine called a 'proton pump inhibitor' (PPI). It works by reducing the amount of acid your stomach makes. This helps to heal damage to your esophagus (the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach) and relieve symptoms like heartburn and difficulty swallowing caused by too much stomach acid.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication
To take this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take your dose 1 hour before a meal.
Preparing Your Dose
For 2.5 mg or 5 mg packets, mix the contents with 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of water. For 10 mg, 20 mg, or 40 mg packets, mix with 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of water. If you need to take 2 packets, use double the amount of water. Stir the mixture into the water, then let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes. After this time, mix well and drink the entire dose within 30 minutes of preparation. Discard any unused portion after 30 minutes. Rinse your cup with more water and drink the rinse water to ensure you get the full dose.
Using a Feeding Tube
If you have a feeding tube, you can still take this medication. For 2.5 mg or 5 mg packets, add 5 mL of water to a syringe, then add the packet contents. For 10 mg, 20 mg, or 40 mg packets, add 15 mL of water to the syringe, then add the packet contents. Replace the plunger and shake the syringe. Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, then shake again and administer the dose through the feeding tube. After giving the medication, refill the syringe with the same amount of water used, shake, and flush the feeding tube.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom. Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. If you have questions about disposing of your medication, consult your pharmacist. You may also have access to drug take-back programs in your area.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses.
To take this medication correctly, follow your doctor's instructions and read all the information provided. Take your dose 1 hour before a meal.
Preparing Your Dose
For 2.5 mg or 5 mg packets, mix the contents with 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of water. For 10 mg, 20 mg, or 40 mg packets, mix with 1 tablespoon (15 mL) of water. If you need to take 2 packets, use double the amount of water. Stir the mixture into the water, then let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes. After this time, mix well and drink the entire dose within 30 minutes of preparation. Discard any unused portion after 30 minutes. Rinse your cup with more water and drink the rinse water to ensure you get the full dose.
Using a Feeding Tube
If you have a feeding tube, you can still take this medication. For 2.5 mg or 5 mg packets, add 5 mL of water to a syringe, then add the packet contents. For 10 mg, 20 mg, or 40 mg packets, add 15 mL of water to the syringe, then add the packet contents. Replace the plunger and shake the syringe. Let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes, then shake again and administer the dose through the feeding tube. After giving the medication, refill the syringe with the same amount of water used, shake, and flush the feeding tube.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom. Keep all medications in a safe location, out of the reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused or expired medications properly. Do not flush them down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. If you have questions about disposing of your medication, consult your pharmacist. You may also have access to drug take-back programs in your area.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take the medication at least one hour before a meal, preferably in the morning.
- Do not crush or chew the granules in the packet. Mix the powder with water as directed and drink immediately.
- Avoid trigger foods that worsen acid reflux (e.g., spicy foods, fatty foods, caffeine, chocolate, peppermint, citrus).
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
- Avoid lying down for at least 3 hours after eating.
- Elevate the head of your bed.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Generic Alternatives:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
Not typically used for standard adult dosing; higher strengths (20mg, 40mg) are common for adults. 10mg powder for suspension is primarily for pediatric use or specific adult indications where lower dose/liquid formulation is needed.
Condition-Specific Dosing:
GERD (non-erosive):
20 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks (using higher strength)
Erosive Esophagitis (healing):
20 mg or 40 mg once daily for 4-8 weeks (using higher strength)
Maintenance of healed Erosive Esophagitis:
20 mg once daily (using higher strength)
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established
Infant:
1 month to <1 year: 2.5 mg or 5 mg once daily for up to 6 weeks for GERD (non-erosive).
Child:
1 year to 11 years: 10 mg once daily for up to 8 weeks for symptomatic GERD; 10 mg or 20 mg once daily for up to 8 weeks for healing of erosive esophagitis.
12 years to 17 years: 20 mg or 40 mg once daily for up to 8 weeks for healing of erosive esophagitis; 20 mg once daily for up to 8 weeks for symptomatic GERD.
Adolescent:
12 years to 17 years: 20 mg or 40 mg once daily for up to 8 weeks for healing of erosive esophagitis; 20 mg once daily for up to 8 weeks for symptomatic GERD.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed
Moderate:
No adjustment needed
Severe:
No adjustment needed
Dialysis:
No adjustment needed; Esomeprazole is highly protein-bound and not readily dialyzable.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
No adjustment needed (Child-Pugh Class A)
Moderate:
No adjustment needed (Child-Pugh Class B)
Severe:
Consider dose reduction (e.g., maximum 20 mg daily) for patients with severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh Class C).
Confidence:
High
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that suppresses gastric acid secretion by specific inhibition of the H+/K+-ATPase (proton pump) in the gastric parietal cell. It is the S-isomer of omeprazole. By acting specifically on the proton pump, esomeprazole blocks the final step in acid production, thus reducing gastric acidity regardless of the stimulus.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
Approximately 64% after a single 40 mg dose, increasing to 89% with repeated once-daily dosing. For 20 mg, bioavailability is 50% and 68% respectively.
Tmax:
1.5 hours (oral)
FoodEffect:
Food delays and decreases the absorption of esomeprazole, but this does not significantly affect the acid-suppressing effect. It is recommended to take at least one hour before a meal.
Distribution:
Vd:
0.22-0.35 L/kg
ProteinBinding:
Approximately 97% bound to plasma proteins.
CnssPenetration:
Limited
Elimination:
HalfLife:
Approximately 1-1.5 hours (plasma elimination half-life).
Clearance:
Not readily available as a single rate, but primarily hepatic metabolism.
ExcretionRoute:
Approximately 80% of an oral dose is excreted as metabolites in the urine, and the remainder in the feces.
Unchanged:
<1% in urine
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Within 1 hour
PeakEffect:
Acid suppression effect peaks within 2-4 hours.
DurationOfAction:
Up to 24 hours (due to irreversible binding to the proton pump, acid secretion only resumes as new pumps are synthesized).
Confidence:
High
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Urgent Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Right Away
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:
Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Signs of electrolyte problems: mood changes, confusion, muscle pain, cramps, or spasms, weakness, shakiness, balance changes, abnormal heartbeat, seizures, loss of appetite, or severe nausea and vomiting.
Signs of kidney problems: inability to urinate, changes in urine output, blood in the urine, or sudden weight gain.
Severe dizziness or fainting.
Bone pain.
Significant weight loss.
Symptoms of C. difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD): stomach pain, cramps, very loose or watery stools, or bloody stools. Do not attempt to treat diarrhea without consulting your doctor first.
Severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and other serious reactions, which can affect body organs and be life-threatening. Seek medical help immediately if you experience: red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; red or irritated eyes; sores in your mouth, throat, nose, eyes, genitals, or skin; fever; chills; body aches; shortness of breath; or swollen glands.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones. If you are bothered by any of the following side effects or if they persist, contact your doctor or seek medical attention:
Headache.
Stomach pain or diarrhea.
Constipation.
Gas.
Dry mouth.
Upset stomach.
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention immediately:
Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin (with or without fever), wheezing, tightness in the chest or throat, difficulty breathing, swallowing, or talking, unusual hoarseness, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Signs of electrolyte problems: mood changes, confusion, muscle pain, cramps, or spasms, weakness, shakiness, balance changes, abnormal heartbeat, seizures, loss of appetite, or severe nausea and vomiting.
Signs of kidney problems: inability to urinate, changes in urine output, blood in the urine, or sudden weight gain.
Severe dizziness or fainting.
Bone pain.
Significant weight loss.
Symptoms of C. difficile-associated diarrhea (CDAD): stomach pain, cramps, very loose or watery stools, or bloody stools. Do not attempt to treat diarrhea without consulting your doctor first.
Severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and other serious reactions, which can affect body organs and be life-threatening. Seek medical help immediately if you experience: red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; red or irritated eyes; sores in your mouth, throat, nose, eyes, genitals, or skin; fever; chills; body aches; shortness of breath; or swollen glands.
Other Possible Side Effects
Like all medications, this drug can cause side effects. Many people may not experience any side effects or only minor ones. If you are bothered by any of the following side effects or if they persist, contact your doctor or seek medical attention:
Headache.
Stomach pain or diarrhea.
Constipation.
Gas.
Dry mouth.
Upset stomach.
This is not an exhaustive list of possible side effects. If you have questions or concerns about side effects, consult your doctor. You can also report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe or persistent diarrhea (may indicate C. difficile infection)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Difficulty or pain when swallowing
- Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
- Black, tarry stools
- New or worsening muscle cramps, spasms, or weakness (signs of low magnesium)
- Unusual fatigue, dizziness, or pale skin (signs of low vitamin B12)
- New bone pain or fractures
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
If you are currently taking any of the following medications: atazanavir, clopidogrel, methotrexate, nelfinavir, rifampin, rilpivirine, St. John's wort, or warfarin.
* If you have a history of certain health issues, including:
+ Black or bloody stools
+ Heartburn accompanied by lightheadedness, sweating, dizziness, or wheezing
+ Chest pain
+ Shoulder pain with shortness of breath
+ Pain that radiates to the arms, neck, or shoulders
+ Lightheadedness
+ Excessive sweating
+ Vomiting blood
+ Difficulty or pain when swallowing food
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health problems with your doctor and pharmacist. This will help ensure your safety while taking this medication. Never start, stop, or adjust the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
If you are currently taking any of the following medications: atazanavir, clopidogrel, methotrexate, nelfinavir, rifampin, rilpivirine, St. John's wort, or warfarin.
* If you have a history of certain health issues, including:
+ Black or bloody stools
+ Heartburn accompanied by lightheadedness, sweating, dizziness, or wheezing
+ Chest pain
+ Shoulder pain with shortness of breath
+ Pain that radiates to the arms, neck, or shoulders
+ Lightheadedness
+ Excessive sweating
+ Vomiting blood
+ Difficulty or pain when swallowing food
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health problems with your doctor and pharmacist. This will help ensure your safety while taking this medication. Never start, stop, or adjust the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Adhere to the prescribed duration of treatment, as taking this drug for longer than recommended by your doctor may lead to adverse effects.
This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it is crucial to notify all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this drug.
Patients with weak bones (osteoporosis) should be aware that this medication may increase the risk of fractures in the hip, spine, and wrist. This risk may be higher if you take high doses of this medication, use it for more than a year, or are over 50 years old. If you have risk factors for osteoporosis, such as alcohol consumption, smoking, steroid use, seizure medication, or a family history of osteoporosis, discuss your risks with your doctor and take necessary precautions.
Prolonged use of this medication (typically more than 3 months) may lead to rare but potentially serious side effects, including low magnesium levels. Most cases occur after 1 year of treatment, and low magnesium levels can cause other electrolyte problems. Your doctor may recommend regular blood tests to monitor your condition.
Long-term treatment with this medication (usually more than 3 years) may cause low vitamin B-12 levels. Be aware of the signs of low vitamin B-12 levels, such as shortness of breath, dizziness, abnormal heartbeat, muscle weakness, pale skin, tiredness, mood changes, or numbness or tingling in the arms or legs. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
In rare cases, this medication has been associated with the development or worsening of lupus. If you have lupus, inform your doctor, and seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as a rash on the cheeks or other body parts, changes in skin color, easy sunburn, muscle or joint pain, chest pain or shortness of breath, or swelling in the arms or legs.
Taking this medication for more than 1 year may increase the risk of developing stomach growths called fundic gland polyps. If you have concerns, discuss them with your doctor.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. It is essential to discuss the benefits and risks of this medication to you and your baby to ensure the best possible outcome.
This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it is crucial to notify all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this drug.
Patients with weak bones (osteoporosis) should be aware that this medication may increase the risk of fractures in the hip, spine, and wrist. This risk may be higher if you take high doses of this medication, use it for more than a year, or are over 50 years old. If you have risk factors for osteoporosis, such as alcohol consumption, smoking, steroid use, seizure medication, or a family history of osteoporosis, discuss your risks with your doctor and take necessary precautions.
Prolonged use of this medication (typically more than 3 months) may lead to rare but potentially serious side effects, including low magnesium levels. Most cases occur after 1 year of treatment, and low magnesium levels can cause other electrolyte problems. Your doctor may recommend regular blood tests to monitor your condition.
Long-term treatment with this medication (usually more than 3 years) may cause low vitamin B-12 levels. Be aware of the signs of low vitamin B-12 levels, such as shortness of breath, dizziness, abnormal heartbeat, muscle weakness, pale skin, tiredness, mood changes, or numbness or tingling in the arms or legs. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
In rare cases, this medication has been associated with the development or worsening of lupus. If you have lupus, inform your doctor, and seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms such as a rash on the cheeks or other body parts, changes in skin color, easy sunburn, muscle or joint pain, chest pain or shortness of breath, or swelling in the arms or legs.
Taking this medication for more than 1 year may increase the risk of developing stomach growths called fundic gland polyps. If you have concerns, discuss them with your doctor.
If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, inform your doctor. It is essential to discuss the benefits and risks of this medication to you and your baby to ensure the best possible outcome.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Limited experience with overdose. Symptoms may include drowsiness, confusion, blurred vision, tachycardia, nausea, sweating, flushing, headache, dry mouth, and other GI disturbances.
What to Do:
Call 1-800-222-1222 (Poison Control Center) immediately. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Esomeprazole is highly protein-bound and not readily dialyzable.
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
- Clopidogrel (reduced antiplatelet effect due to CYP2C19 inhibition)
- Nelfinavir (decreased nelfinavir exposure)
- Atazanavir (decreased atazanavir exposure)
- Rilpivirine (decreased rilpivirine exposure)
Moderate Interactions
- Methotrexate (increased methotrexate levels, especially high-dose)
- Tacrolimus (increased tacrolimus levels)
- Digoxin (increased digoxin levels)
- Warfarin (increased INR/bleeding risk, monitor closely)
- Iron salts (decreased absorption of iron)
- Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Erlotinib (decreased absorption due to increased gastric pH)
- Diazepam (decreased diazepam clearance)
- Citalopram (increased citalopram exposure)
- Cilostazol (increased cilostazol exposure)
- Phenytoin (increased phenytoin levels)
Minor Interactions
- Sucralfate (may delay absorption of esomeprazole, administer at least 30 minutes apart)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Baseline symptoms of GERD/esophagitis
Rationale: To assess initial severity and guide treatment.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy
Routine Monitoring
Symptom resolution/improvement
Frequency: Periodically, as clinically indicated (e.g., at follow-up visits)
Target: Reduction or elimination of symptoms
Action Threshold: Lack of improvement or worsening symptoms may require further investigation or change in therapy.
Magnesium levels (Mg)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged use (>3 months) or concomitant diuretics/digoxin
Target: Normal serum magnesium levels (1.7-2.2 mg/dL)
Action Threshold: Hypomagnesemia (Mg < 1.7 mg/dL) may require supplementation or discontinuation of PPI.
Bone mineral density (BMD)
Frequency: Consider for patients at high risk of osteoporosis with long-term use (>1 year)
Target: Maintain healthy BMD
Action Threshold: Significant bone loss may require intervention or alternative therapy.
Vitamin B12 levels
Frequency: Consider for patients on long-term therapy (>2-3 years) or with risk factors for B12 deficiency
Target: Normal serum B12 levels
Action Threshold: Deficiency may require supplementation.
Renal function (SCr, eGFR)
Frequency: Periodically with long-term use
Target: Stable renal function
Action Threshold: Acute interstitial nephritis (AIN) or chronic kidney disease (CKD) may require discontinuation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Persistent or worsening heartburn
- Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
- Odynophagia (painful swallowing)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Recurrent vomiting
- GI bleeding (black, tarry stools or coffee-ground vomit)
- Symptoms of hypomagnesemia (e.g., muscle cramps, tremors, seizures, arrhythmias)
- Symptoms of C. difficile infection (e.g., severe diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Esomeprazole is Pregnancy Category B. Studies in animals have not shown harm to the fetus, and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women. Use only if clearly needed.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Generally considered low risk based on available data, but use with caution and only if benefits outweigh risks.
Second Trimester:
Low risk.
Third Trimester:
Low risk.
Lactation
Esomeprazole is excreted into human milk. The amount is small, and adverse effects on the infant are not expected. However, due to potential for serious adverse reactions in the breastfed infant, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. Lactation Risk Category L3 (Moderately Safe).
Infant Risk:
Low risk of adverse effects, but monitor for any unusual symptoms.
Pediatric Use
Approved for use in pediatric patients 1 month to 17 years for certain indications (GERD, erosive esophagitis). Dosing is weight-based for younger children. Safety and effectiveness in infants younger than 1 month have not been established.
Geriatric Use
No overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between elderly and younger patients. No dosage adjustment is necessary based solely on age. However, elderly patients may be more susceptible to long-term adverse effects such as bone fractures and hypomagnesemia.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Esomeprazole is the S-isomer of omeprazole, often marketed as a 'next-generation' PPI, though clinical superiority over other PPIs for most indications is debated.
- The 10mg powder for suspension is particularly useful for pediatric patients or adults who have difficulty swallowing pills.
- Long-term use of PPIs (especially >1 year) has been associated with increased risk of bone fractures (hip, wrist, spine), C. difficile-associated diarrhea, hypomagnesemia, vitamin B12 deficiency, and acute interstitial nephritis.
- Consider the lowest effective dose and shortest duration of therapy for all patients.
- For patients on clopidogrel, consider alternative acid suppression therapy (e.g., H2-receptor antagonists) or careful monitoring due to the CYP2C19 interaction.
- Advise patients to report any new or worsening symptoms, especially severe diarrhea or muscle cramps.
Alternative Therapies
- Other Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Omeprazole, Lansoprazole, Pantoprazole, Rabeprazole, Dexlansoprazole
- H2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs): Famotidine, Ranitidine (withdrawn in some regions), Cimetidine, Nizatidine
- Antacids (e.g., calcium carbonate, aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide)
- Prokinetics (e.g., Metoclopramide, Domperidone - limited use due to side effects)
- Lifestyle modifications (dietary changes, weight loss, elevating head of bed)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
$150 - $300 per 30 packets (10mg)
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or Tier 2 (generic), Tier 3 or Non-Formulary (brand)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health issues persist or worsen, it is essential to contact your doctor promptly. To ensure your safety, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. This medication is accompanied by a Medication Guide, which is a valuable resource that provides important information. Please read this guide carefully and review it again whenever you receive a refill of this medication. If you have any questions or concerns about this medication, we encourage you to discuss them with your doctor, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide details about the overdose, including the medication taken, the amount, and the time it occurred.