Vimovo is a prescription medication that is used to treat symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Vimovo is a combination medication that contains esomeprazole and naproxen and works by reducing inflammation in the body.

Make sure to always read the patient information and instructions before using this medication. Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Swallow Vimovo whole without chewing or crushing.
• Take this medication at least 30 minutes before a meal.
• This medication is typically taken twice a day.

Tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• About your drug and other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history particularly of heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, asthma or low levels of magnesium in the blood.
• If you have recently had heart bypass surgery or have it scheduled.
• If you have suffered an allergic reaction or asthma attack after taking aspirin or another NSAID.
• If you smoke or drink alcohol.
• If you are pregnant or planning pregnancy. This medication may not be safe.
• If you are breast-feeding. This medication may not be safe.

You should also know:

• Vimovo should not be taken by anyone that is younger than 12 or weighs less than 84lbs.
• Taking Vimovo for an extended period of time can increase the risk of bone fractures.
• Do not use anti-diarrhea medication while taking Vimovo.
• Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
• This medication can affect the result of some medical tests. Tell all of your doctors that you take this medication.

Common side effects of Vimovo include but are not limited to:

• Stomach discomfort.
• Diarrhea.

Get medical help if you have any of the following side effects of Vimovo:

• Severe stomach pain.
• Watery or bloody diarrhea or stools.
• Vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
• Coughing up blood.
• Signs of a low magnesium level including coughing, choking, muscle cramps, muscle spasms in the hands and feet, dizziness, fast heart rate, irregular heart rate, jerking muscle movements, tremors, or feeling jittery.
• Signs of a kidney problem such as urine that is bloody or less frequent.
• Signs of low red blood cells such as pale skin, shortness of breath, cold hands or feet, unusual tiredness, or lightheadedness.
• Signs of new or worsening lupus such as joint pain or a skin rash on the cheeks or arms that appear worse in sunlight.
• Signs of a heart problem such as shortness of breath, swelling, or rapid weight gain.
• Signs of a liver problem including dark urine, jaundice, loss of appetite, or pain in the upper right side of the stomach.
• Signs of a stroke or heart attack including shortness of breath, chest pain that spreads to the jaw or shoulder, slurred speech, or sudden numbness or weakness on one side of the body.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling in your face, lips, or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Vimovo?

If you miss a dose of Vimovo, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose.

What drugs does Vimovo contain?

Vimovo is a combination medication that contains naproxen and esomeprazole.