Medicines for GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a long-term condition in which acid from the stomach comes up into the esophagus. It can lead to heartburn and other symptoms. GERD can be treated with medicine. This may be done with a medicine you can buy over the counter. Or your health care provider may prescribe medicine. In some cases, both types may be used. Your provider will tell you what is best for your symptoms.

Antacids

Antacids work to weaken the acid in your stomach. They can give you quick relief. While they start working quickly, the neutralizing effect only lasts for about 30 to 60 minutes after each dose. You can buy many of them with no prescription. Antacids can be high in sodium. This may be a problem if you have high blood pressure. Some antacids also have aluminum. You should stay away from these if you have long-term (chronic) kidney disease. So check with your provider first. Take antacids only when you need to, as advised by your provider.

Side effects: Constipation, diarrhea. If you take too much medicine, it can cause calcium to build up. 

Alginates

Alginates work differently than antacids. They interact with the acids in your stomach to prevent them from rising up into your esophagus.

H-2 blockers

These cause the stomach to make less acid. They are often used on demand as symptoms occur. Or they can be used daily to keep symptoms away. Your health care provider may prescribe them if antacids don’t work for you. You can buy some of them over the counter. These come in a lower dosage.

Side effects: Confusion in older adults.

Proton-pump inhibitors

These also cause the stomach to make less acid. They reduce stomach acid more than H-2 blockers. They may be used for a short time. Or you can use them longer to treat certain conditions. You can buy some of them over the counter. Or your provider may prescribe them. They help control GERD symptoms.

Side effects: Belly pain, diarrhea, upset stomach. Possible other side effects linked to long-term use and high doses include infection and reduced absorption of minerals and nutrients. Taking the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible time reduces the risk of having side effects.

Prokinetics

These medicines affect the movement of the digestive tract. They may be advised if your stomach empties too slowly. But in most cases, they are not advised for treating GERD.

Side effects: Tiredness, depression, anxiety, problems with physical movement, belly cramps, constipation, diarrhea, a jittery feeling.

Medicines to stay away from

Don’t take aspirin or products that contain aspirin without your health care provider’s approval. And don’t take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen. These reduce the protective lining of your stomach. This can lead to more GERD symptoms. Check with your provider or pharmacist before you take a new medicine.