When acid reflux occurs two or more times a week, it may be an indication of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If your doctor determines you have GERD, he or she may recommend medication.
Medications for GERD include over-the-counter and prescription drugs. These include antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
Antacids
Antacids are fast-acting medicines that neutralize stomach acid and reduce the symptoms of heartburn, indigestion, sour stomach, or acid reflux. They may also help prevent these symptoms from occurring by tightening the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
Some antacids contain a foaming agent called alginate that floats on top of the stomach contents and acts as a barrier to stop acid from reaching the esophagus. They can also relieve bloating or gas in people who are prone to these problems.
Antacids are safe when used as directed by a doctor. However, they can have side effects like nausea and constipation. These should be reported to your GP or pharmacist.
H2 Blockers
H2 blockers combine with histamine receptors in a person’s stomach to reduce the amount of acid that the body produces. This relieves heartburn and GERD symptoms.
Unlike antacids, which neutralize gastric acid quickly, H2 blockers act more slowly and can reduce symptoms for a longer period. They can be taken in the form of tablets, capsules, or liquids and are usually available over the counter.
For people who suffer from frequent or severe heartburn, doctors may prescribe H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). These medications can also be used to treat esophagitis, which is inflammation of the esophagus that results from GERD.
Most H2 blockers are effective in treating GERD, but some people have side effects that can be severe. Some people can experience confusion, hallucinations, or delirium while taking these drugs.
PPIs
If you have a severe case of heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), your doctor may prescribe you a prescription medication called a proton pump inhibitor. This group includes drugs like lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), pantoprazole (Protonix) and rabeprazole (AcipHex).
The PPIs work by blocking the stomach’s ability to produce acid, which helps reduce symptoms of heartburn and GERD. They’re usually taken in the morning or 30 minutes before eating dinner, depending on your doctor’s instructions.
In addition to reducing heartburn symptoms, some PPIs can lower the risk of a bacterial infection called Clostridium difficile, which can cause diarrhea and lead to other serious problems if left untreated.
Also, long-term use of PPIs can lower your body’s ability to absorb certain vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12 and calcium. It’s important to keep track of your medications and see your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
Famotidine
A prescription medication called famotidine (Pepcid AC) works to reduce the amount of stomach acid your body produces. It helps treat some types of stomach problems, including heartburn, acid reflux disease, and ulcers.
Famotidine comes as a tablet or liquid suspension that you take by mouth. It can also be given through an injection.
Medications like famotidine are categorized as H2 blockers, which work by blocking H2-receptors in the stomach that release acid. They are used to treat conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) and duodenal ulcers.
The dose of famotidine will vary depending on your health condition. Your doctor will decide the best dose for you, and you should not increase your dosage or use it with other medications unless you have your provider’s approval.
If you take too much famotidine, call your provider or local poison control center right away. Overdose can cause serious side effects, such as kidney damage, seizures, and breathing problems.
