Compare Nexium vs. Alka-Seltzer

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Treats heartburn and stomach ulcers.

Nexium (esomeprazole) gives you long-lasting heartburn relief but has some risks if used long term.

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4.0/ 5 average rating with 1239 reviewsforNexium
Relieves symptoms of indigestion and pain

Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) provides quick relief for heartburn, upset stomach, headaches, and general pain. However, you have to take it a few times a day to continue getting relief of your symptoms.

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3.9/ 5 average rating with 1055 reviewsforAlka-Seltzer
Upsides
  • Most people can take Nexium (esomeprazole) without any noticeable day-to-day side effects.
  • Nexium (esomeprazole) lasts longer than other types of antacids (like Zantac, Pepcid, or Tums), and you only need to take it once a day.
  • You can take it in combination with a quick-acting antacid (like Maalox or Tums) if you need quicker relief.
  • Nexium (esomeprazole) is inexpensive, with over-the-counter and generic options.
  • Coupons are available for the brand name - speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
  • The packet form is a good option if you have trouble swallowing pills.They can be mixed with water for easier swallowing.
  • Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) is a great option if you have an upset stomach and a headache or body aches at the same time.
  • Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) works quickly to relieve symptoms.
  • Available over the counter without a prescription.
  • Also, available as generic and is fairly cheap.
Downsides
  • Doesn't start working right away like antacids (Tums, Rolaids, or Maalox).
  • It can take several days or weeks to start feeling benefits.
  • May not be the best choice for patients 65 years of age and older due to risk of bone fractures and severe diarrhea.
  • The effects of this medication don't last very long. Other medicines, like Zantac (H2 blockers) and omeprazole (proton pump inhibitors), work better and last longer.
  • Because this medicine contains aspirin, it raises the risk of bleeding, especially if you take any other blood thinning medicines.
  • People who are allergic to aspirin can't use this medication.
  • May not like the taste or fizz.
  • Kids or teenagers should not use Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) unless instructed by a doctor.
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Used for
  • GERD
  • H. Pylori bacterial infection
  • Prevention and treatment of NSAID-induced gastric ulcers
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Injection
  • Packet
  • Effervescent tablet
Price
Lowest price
$18.48
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Reviews
1239 reviews so far
75%
saidit'sworth it
59%
saiditworked well
11%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Nexium (esomeprazole)?

Leave a review
1055 reviews so far
81%
saidit'sworth it
52%
saiditworked well
8%
saidit'sa big hassle

Have you used Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate)?

Leave a review
Side effects
The Nexium (esomeprazole) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
The Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) FDA package insert doesn’t have numbers about how common side effects are.
Risks and risk factors
  • Stomach cancer
  • Kidney injury
  • Severe diarrhea
    • Being treated at a hospital
  • Bone fractures
    • High dose Nexium (esomeprazole)
    • Long-term treatment with Nexium (esomeprazole)
    • Low bone mineral density
    • Aged 65 years or older
  • Lupus
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Taking the wrong medication
    • Not reading the drug label
  • Brain damage or death from Reye's Syndrome
    • Children 18 years or younger recovering from viral infections
  • High blood sodium levels
    • Current kidney disease
    • Dialysis
    • Age 65 or older
    • Hyperparathyroidism
    • Use of other medicines that can cause kidney damage
  • May worsen heart or kidney problems
    • Congestive heart failure (CHF)
    • High blood pressure
    • Current kidney disease
    • Kidney dialysis
  • Stomach Bleeding
    • History of stomach bleeding or ulcers
    • Age 60 or older
    • Also taking other blood thinners
    • Drinking 3 or more alcoholic drinks a day
  • Harm to unborn babies
    • Pregnancy
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Nexium (esomeprazole)
Learn more about Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate)