Nexium has been approved for short-term use by the Food and Drug Administration for children aged 1 to 11 who are suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease.

FDA said Thursday that Nexium, in liquid form and delayed-release capsules, with dosages of 10 mg to or 20 mg was approved for the young children. Earlier, dosages of 20 mg or 40 mg were already approved for those aged 12 to 17.

Nexium (esomeprazole magnesium) is a proton pump inhibitor that reduces the amount of stomach acid produced and helps heal damage to the esophagus due to excess acid. Its side effects include headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, gas, constipation, dry mouth and sleepiness, the agency said.

Nexium's safety and effectiveness in children below one year old has not been assessed by FDA.