What are Heartburn Medications Available Over the Counter

There are many ways to treat heartburn. One is to introduce certain modifications in one’s lifestyle, particularly our eating habits. Two is to avail of heartburn medications that are either prescribed or available over the counter. These medications work to relieve heartburn symptoms either by neutralizing the effect of gastric acid or to reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach.

While these medications usually work as soon as consumed, there are cases when heartburn meds fail to relieve heartburn symptoms. Should your symptoms persist or became worse, consult with your doctor. You may want to ask about other heartburn treatment options available to you. Your doctor may even take a second look at your symptoms and how it may have progressed over time.

Over-the-counter or non-regulated heartburn medications you may want to ask your doctor about include:

Antacids. These medications work by neutralizing the effect of gastric acid that may seep out of the stomach and back into the esophagus. Antacids are not only used to relieve heartburn symptoms but also eases symptoms of acid indigestion, sour stomach, and stomach upset. In some cases, it is also given to patients with ulcers.

Most antacids contain a substance known simethicone. It is an ingredient of most meds that help eliminate excessive gastric gas. Because of the presence of aluminum or magnesium, some antacids may cause constipation (caused by aluminum) or diarrhea (as triggered by magnesium).

Some brands that come under this group of heartburn medication include Pepto-Bismol, Tums (Titralac, Alka-2, and Surpass Gum), Milk of Magnesia, Maalox (Rolaids, Gaviscon), Amphojel, and Alka-Seltzer.

It is important that you take antacids according to the manufacturer’s direction or as directed by your doctor. This is because there are reported cases of serious side effects with overuse or overdose of antacids. Some side effects include a change in the pattern of bowel movements, diarrhea, constipation, and severe stomach cramps.

Antacids are available in both liquid and tablet form. If you prefer tablets, it is recommended that you chew it first before swallowing. In this way, you can get faster, even instant relief from heartburn.

Acid blockers. These medications, as its name implies, essentially work to reduce the production of gastric acid. Acid blockers are categorized into two groups. One, the histamine antagonists or the H2 antagonist and, two, the proton pump inhibitors. Acid blockers, like antacids, are given not only to those with heartburn but also to those who suffer from sour stomach and acid indigestion.

Some brands categorized under H2 antagonist that are available over the counter include Axid AR, Zantac 75, Tagamet HB, and Pepcid AC. Some FDA-recommended proton pump inhibitors include Prilosec, Prevacid, and Zegerid. These proton pump inhibitors vary in strength, and there those that are, therefore, available in prescription strength.

Some known side effects of acid blockers include chest tightness, confusion, irregular heartburn, weakness, fever, and unexplained fatigue. Should you experience any of these conditions or should your heartburn get worse, immediately see your doctor.

Combination acid blocker and antacid. There are certain heartburn cases that require both the reduction of gastric acid and its neutralization. In these cases, the only heartburn medication available that has been made to work this way is Pepcid Complete.