OK, you’ve tried some of the natural remedies and you’re still having heartburn. I asked Jody Victor® to tell us about some over-the-counter medications that can help heartburn.
Jody Victor®: Steve, there are quite a few OTC medications you can try. As always, please check with your doctor before you try anything new.
ANTACIDS- Antacids neutralize stomach acid to help relieve heartburn, sour stomach, acid indigestion, and upset stomach. Antacids last 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on whether your stomach is empty or full. Keep in mind that antacids reduce nutrient absorption, such as iron, and increase blood pressure as they upset your kidneys. They also change the pH of your stomach, causing pepsin to become deactivated. This in turn interrupts digestion and can make your heartburn worse. Examples of antacids include: Alka-Seltzer, Alka-2, Bromo-Seltzer, Gaviscon, Gelusil, Maalox, Milk of Magnesia, Mylanta, Riopan, Rolaids, and Tums.
H2 BLOCKERS (Histamine Receptor Antagonists) – H2 Blocker inhibits the action of histamine, which stimulates the secretion of stomach acid, and partially blocks the production of stomach acid. H2 blockers last 6 to 10 hours. Examples of H2 blockers include:AxidAR, Pepcid AC, Tagamet HB, and Zantac 75.
ANTACID H2- Antacid H2 is a combination of an antacid and an H2 Blocker that neutralizes existing stomach acid and inhibits the production of more stomach acid. Antacid H2 lasts 6 to 10 hours. Only one example of example of Antacid H2: Pepcid Complete.
PROTON PUMP INHIBITORS (PPIs) – PPIs deactivate acid pumps in the cells of your stomach where the acid is produced. PPIs are for people with frequent heartburn (two or more days a week). PPIs last up to 24 hours. Examples of Protein Pump Inhibitors include: Prilosec OTC, Prevacid 24HR, and Zegerid OTC.
All the Best!