Both prescription drugs are used to treat conditions in which a reduction of gastric acid secretion is required, such as ulcers and reflux.

In Canada, omeprazole is also sold in generic form as Apo-omeprazole, Ratio-omeprazole and Sandoz-omeprazole. Esomeprazole is only sold under the trade name Nexium.

Based on its review, Health Canada scientists said they found no evidence supporting an increased cardiovascular risk associated with the long-term use of either drug.

Officials advised patients taking either Losec or Nexium to not make any changes to their medication unless they first discuss it with their physicians.