Heartburn and other acid reflux symptoms (GERD) affect millions of people everyday, and there are many pharmaceutical drugs for heartburn relief available over-the-counter (OTC). Read on to learn how to evaluate the different drugs available.
Neutralize excess stomach acid with antacids. The Mayo Clinic suggests Maalox, Tums, Mylanta, Rolaids and Gelusil for quick relief for acid reflux symptoms. Chewable tablets and liquid formulations are widely available in pharmacies or even at grocery stores. If the symptoms are severe or persistent, you may need more than antacids and should consider other types of medications.
Consider taking antacid formulations that contain alginic acid, a compound that is added to some antacid formulations such as Gaviscon. Some people find this more effective because these medications form a layer of foam over the stomach contents to stop the heartburn.
Lessen the production of stomach acids by taking H-2 receptor blockers, such as cimetidine, famotidine, nizatidine and ranitidine . These drugs decrease the acidity and provide longer-lasting relief from acid reflux symptoms. However, these they do not work as quickly as antacids. You can get these drugs from the pharmacist.
Control the production of stomach acid using Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs), so as to allow time for the esophagus to heal. The Mayo Clinic lists lansoprazole (Prevacid 24 HR) and omeprazole (Prilosec OTC) as PPIs that may be used for acid reflux disease. These include pantoprazole, omeprazole, and lansoprazole. When the stomach stops producing acid, the esophagus gets a chance to heal. Some PPIs are available OTC, while others are only available by prescription.
Consider using prokinetic agents such as metoclopramide for heartburn relief. This is a group of pharmaceuticals that stimulate the muscles in the digestion tract. These drugs tighten the esophageal valve (preventing acids from leaking into the esophagus) and also make the stomach to empty its contents more quickly. These are available by prescription.
Take Simeticone, also know as dimeticone. According to Rite Care pharmacy, this heartburn treatment helps to reduce the effects of gas and bloating that trigger or aggravate heartburn symptoms. The drug is available in capsule or syrup form.
If these medications fail to alleviate acid reflux symptoms after a few weeks, a healthcare practitioner should be consulted. Medications for acid reflux symptoms are sometimes taken in combination so as to increase their effectiveness.
Consult a Licensed Physician for Persistent Acid Reflux Symptoms
Take into account the severity of the acid reflux symptoms. OTC drugs are suited for mild or occasional problems. However, if the symptoms are severe, stronger drugs, higher doses or even acid reflux surgery may be required, which are only available by prescription. It is important not to ignore persistent heartburn problems as it can lead to serious problems, including esophageal cancer.
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