FDA Approves Intravenous Formulation of AstraZeneca's Nexium

The FDA has approved a new intravenous administration formulation of AstraZeneca's prescription proton pump inhibitor Nexium IV (esomeprazole magnesium).

The drug is now approved as an intravenous infusion or injection for the short-term treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease patients, with a history of erosive esophagitis, who are unable to take capsules.

Nexium IV for injection is administered once daily as either a 10 to 30 minute intravenous infusion or by intravenous injection (no less than three minutes). Treatment is given for up to 10 days and does not require an in-line filter.