What does esomeprazole do in the management of GERD?

Esomeprazole is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that specifically targets and irreversibly inhibits the proton pumps located in the gastric parietal cells of the stomach. These pumps are responsible for the final step of gastric acid production. By irreversibly blocking these pumps, esomeprazole effectively reduces the secretion of gastric acid, which is crucial in the management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) as it helps alleviate symptoms such as heartburn and prevents potential damage to the esophagus from acid exposure.

The pharmacological action of esomeprazole leads to a prolonged decrease in gastric acidity, allowing for healing of the esophageal mucosa and relief from GERD-related symptoms. Its mechanism of action differentiates it from other therapies that may not provide such a durable effect on acid suppression.