Acid reflux medicines

Proton pump inhibitors

Proton pump inhibitors are a group of medicines that includes esomeprazole, omeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole and rabeprazole.Proton pump inhibitors provide rapid relief from the symptoms of GERD.

These medicines block the action of the stomach’s proton pump , which pumps hydrogen ions into the stomach, making the stomach acidic. Proton pump inhibitors will, therefore, reduce the acidity of the stomach .

Histamine2-receptor antagonists

Histamine2-receptor antagonists are a group of medicines that includes cimetidine, ranitidine and nizatidine.These medicines work by stopping (blocking) the action of histamine (a chemical released by the stomach). The presence of histamine in the stomach, results in the release of hydrogen ions into the stomach, making the stomach contents more acidic.

Antacids

For people who only suffer from the occasional episode of heartburn, antacids can bring relief. These medicines can be bought over the counter. Antacids provide relief from the symptoms of heartburn by neutralising the acid. If symptoms of heartburn are still present after you have used antacids for 2 weeks, you should consult your doctor. There is a wide range of antacids available.

Antacids sold over the counter may contain one or a combination of these products. For example, aluminium and magnesium salts are often combined to reduce the incidence of diarrhoea or constipation.

Antacids are best taken when the symptoms of heartburn first occur, preferably about 1 hour after a meal.

Antacids may interfere with the absorption of other medicines from the digestive system into the blood. A gap of at least 2 hours should be left between using an antacid and taking other medicines.