An Open-label, Exploratory Trial to Assess Gastric Acid Control in Critically Ill Subjects Receiving Nexium

An Open-Label, Exploratory Trial to Assess Gastric Acid Control in Critically Ill Subjects Receiving Nexium I.V. (Esomeprazole Sodium) 40mg BID for up to 72 Hours

This study is being done to see if Nexium I.V. can reduce and control stomach acid in mechanically ventilated, critically ill patients in an Intensive Care Unit setting.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Critically ill male or female subjects 18 years or older who have a baseline gastric aspirate pH less then or equal to 4
• Subjects admitted to an ICU requiring mechanically ventilated
• Subjects will have at least one additional stress ulcer risk factor

Exclusion Criteria:

• Anticipated use of pre-pyloric enteral feeding after screening until the end of study
• Physician estimated survival of less then 96 hours
• Anticipation of major surgery within 96 hours of study enrollment