If you’ve ever experienced heartburn, you know how uncomfortable it can be. While it’s possible to go about your day and wait for the symptoms to pass, many heartburn medicine options are available to soothe the burning sensation in your chest and help you get rid of acid reflux.
In this article, we will explore the various types of heartburn medications available, how they function within the body, potential side effects to be aware of, and other important considerations to help you make informed decisions for effective relief.
Heartburn symptoms can come and go and often worsen after eating or lying down. The discomfort can last a few minutes or several hours and may extend to the neck and throat, leaving a sour or acidic taste in the mouth. Other common symptoms include:
Over-the-counter antacids are easily accessible medications that offer quick relief for mild heartburn symptoms. They function by neutralizing stomach acid, effectively reducing discomfort and easing the burning sensation.
Antacids are most suitable for occasional heartburn and can be taken as needed. It’s important to remember that antacids only provide temporary relief and do not address the root causes of heartburn. In addition, long-term use of antacids may result in side effects such as constipation or diarrhea.
Antacids use a combination of aluminum, calcium, and magnesium salts as their active ingredients. Examples of antacid products include:
H2 blockers, also called histamine-2 receptor antagonists, are often recommended to address more frequent heartburn symptoms. These medications block histamine receptors in the stomach, reducing stomach acid production. H2 blockers begin to work within one hour, provide longer-lasting relief than antacids, and come in both over-the-counter and prescription formulations at higher strengths.
While generally well tolerated, some people may experience side effects such as headaches, dizziness, or gastrointestinal upset. While using H2 blockers, it’s important to follow the dosing instructions and seek advice from a physician if your symptoms continue or worsen. Examples of H2 blockers include:
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are potent medications that suppress stomach acid production by inhibiting the enzyme responsible for acid secretion in the stomach lining. PPIs are available over-the-counter or by prescription and are often recommended for those who experience frequent or severe heartburn. They usually begin working within one to three days and provide sustained heartburn relief.
Prolonged use of PPIs, however, may lead to potential side effects such as an increased risk of bone fractures, nutrient deficiencies, and certain infections. Following medication dosage and duration instructions is vital to decrease the risk of adverse effects. Examples of PPIs include:
Heartburn medications play a significant role in managing and alleviating symptoms. Antacids offer quick relief for mild symptoms, while H2 blockers and PPIs provide more sustained relief for frequent or severe heartburn.
To avoid adverse effects, these medications must be taken as recommended and only under the supervision of a doctor for long-term use. If your symptoms persist or get worse, talk with your doctor, as you may have a more chronic acid reflux condition called gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD).
Don’t continue to live with chronic heartburn – schedule an appointment and talk to a doctor about the right medication for you!
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