Living With Acid Reflux

Antacids
Antacids, such as Maalox, Mylanta, Gelusil, Rolaids and Tums, neutralize stomach acid and can provide quick relief from heartburn. However, antacids alone won’t heal an inflamed esophagus that has been damaged by stomach acid. Also, overuse of some antacids can cause side effects such as diarrhea or constipation.

H-2-receptor blockers.
Over-the-counter H-2-receptor blockers, such as Tagamet HB (cimetidine), Pepcid AC (famotidine), Axid AR (nizatidine) or Zantac 75 (ranitidine), are available at half the strength of the prescription version. These medications reduce acid production in the stomach. They provide longer relief than antacids but they don’t act as quickly. Normally, you should take one of these medications before a meal that might cause heartburn since it takes about 30 minutes for them to work. They are also effective in reducing acid reflux at night if taken before bedtime. Some H-2-receptor blockers can cause side effects which are infrequent such as dizziness, diarrhea, headache, kidney problems and temporary breast enlargement in men. Rarely, they can also react dangerously with other medications.

Proton Pump Inhibitors
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are a group of prescription and over the counter medications that prevent the release of acid in the stomach and intestines. Doctors can prescribe PPIs to treat people with heartburn, ulcers of the stomach or intestine. The PPI Prilosec is available over the count in a 14 day dose package. Other common PPI medications include: Aciphex, Nexium, Prevacid and Protonix. This class of medication is generally supplied in a 24 hour time released capsule or tablet.

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