People suffering from acid reflux usually turn to commercially available medications for immediate pain relief. The market today is flooded with various medication treatments for managing acid reflux symptoms, readily available in stores and pharmacies. However, these medications only provide temporary relief and do not address the root cause of the problem.
Before purchasing any over-the-counter medication, it is advised to consult your physician, especially if you are already on other medications.
Physicians have a wide spectrum of medications at their disposal for treating acid reflux symptoms. These medications fall under several categories as detailed below.
Antacids
Antacids are commonly used to neutralize stomach acid and are usually prescribed for mild and occasional symptoms. Most of these are over-the-counter and are quite affordable. They are often the first line of treatment recommended by health care professionals for acid reflux.
Antacids typically contain magnesium and aluminum. Some also include calcium. While antacids can provide immediate relief for mild acid reflux symptoms, they offer only a temporary solution and do not reduce the esophageal inflammation caused by Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
Liquid Preparations
Most liquid preparations for acid reflux are over-the-counter medications primarily used to soothe the throat and esophageal area from the burning sensation caused by acid reflux. They usually come in a minty flavor.
These liquid antacids can help coat the esophagus, providing temporary relief. However, once the antacid is cleared from the system, acid reflux symptoms may return. Overconsumption can result in constipation or diarrhea.
H2 Blockers
H2 Blockers are acid preventatives that inhibit the initial process of the acid-producing pumps in the stomach. A normal body chemical, histamine, stimulates acid secretion. By blocking histamine, H2 blockers reduce the risk of acid reflux.
These medications should be taken 30 minutes to an hour before meals for maximum effectiveness, providing relief for six hours to a full day. In severe cases, it might be necessary to take the medication twice a day. H2 blockers may also improve asthma-related symptoms in patients with both asthma and acid reflux.
Proton Pump Inhibitors
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs), another category of acid reflux drugs, function similarly to H2 blockers. They do not inhibit acid production but do decrease acid secretions. PPIs are often prescribed for symptom relief and to allow the esophagus lining time to heal from the corrosive effects of stomach acid.
Omeprazole and lansoprazole are among the most popular PPIs. However, like all medications, they can have potential side effects such as headache, diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, flatulence, vomiting, constipation, and itching.
Long-term use of PPIs can increase the risk of colon infections and problems with vitamin B12 absorption.
Antispasmodics
Antispasmodics are used to prevent acid reflux and non-acid reflux. They help control the muscle movements of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which can sometimes malfunction, allowing acid reflux.
Many of these medications may be available over the counter, but it is recommended to consult a physician before self-diagnosing and self-administering any of these medications.
These synthetic medications may have side effects of varying severity. While they are generally considered safe, it is still advisable to explore alternative natural treatment options to address the underlying problem.
Ultimately, the goal is to eradicate acid reflux, not to introduce new problems due to the medications being taken.
