FDA switches Nexium 24HR to OTC

NEW YORK — The Food and Drug Administration on Friday approved over-the-counter Nexium 24HR (esomeprazole 20mg), Pfizer announced. 

“Switching medicines, whenever appropriate, from prescription to non-prescription status improves access, empowers consumers to care for their own health and is an important strategy for Pfizer,” stated Paul Sturman, president, Pfizer Consumer Healthcare. “The FDA approval of Nexium 24HR is a significant milestone in executing against our plan.”

In 2012, Pfizer acquired exclusive global rights from AstraZeneca to market non-prescription Nexium.