Constipation Incidence with Esomeprazole

Evidence from Clinical Trials and Guidelines

Constipation occurs in approximately 5% or more of patients taking esomeprazole, making it one of the most common adverse effects alongside upper respiratory tract infections 1, 2
Constipation is reported as occurring in ≥5% of patients treated with esomeprazole across multiple dosing regimens, derived from pooled safety data where esomeprazole at 40 mg twice daily for 16 weeks demonstrated adverse event rates comparable to placebo, with constipation being the most frequently reported adverse effect 1, 2

Eluxadoline (used for IBS-D) causes constipation in 8% of patients, which is higher than esomeprazole 3
The constipation rate with esomeprazole appears consistent across different formulations and combination products 2

The 5% incidence rate represents a relatively low but clinically meaningful occurrence that should be discussed with patients, particularly those with pre-existing bowel disorders 1