Over-the-Counter GERD Medicines: Choosing the Right OTC
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Time to read 4 min
Introduction
Have you been confused about what “one-size fits all" medicine would work for you every time your GERD comes up?
Well, you are not alone.Â
More than 60 million Americans experience heartburn each month, and if you are one of them, you know how frustrating it can be.
In this guide, we will break down the three most common treatments: Antacids, H2 Blockers, and PPIs, and reveal if they are really solving the problem or just covering it up?
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Claisen is a 100% online platform designed to provide personalized relief for bloating, gas, and heartburn, so you can run stronger and recover faster.
With Claisen, you can skip the guesswork and get instant relief!
Understanding GERD and It's Symptoms
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) happens when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation.Â
Common symptoms include:
Burning sensation in the chest after eating
Sour or bitter feeling in the mouth
Difficulty swallowingÂ
Feeling of a lump in the throat
Chronic coughÂ
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Struggling with GERD? Checkout our other blogs too!
Types of OTC GERD Medicines:
#1 Antacids
- Antacids neutralize the stomach acid.
- They are fast acting and convenient but they only treat the symptoms and not the cause.
Drawbacks:Â
It can lead to rebound acidity in case of overuse.
It may cause constipation or diarrhea because of its ingredients
They don't prevent acid production, just neutralizes it. Therefore, the relief is temporary
#2 H2 Blockers
H2 blockers reduce acid production by targeting histamine receptors in the stomach lining but only till a certain point.
A case report featured in the  East African Scholars Journal of Medicine and Surgery, described a patient developing acute hepatitis after starting famotidine (a H2 Blocker).Â
Liver enzymes increased, and normalized only after the drug was discontinued.
While H2 Blockers can be helpful in a moment it can:
Take longer to kick in (30 minutes or more)
Effectiveness may reduce over time as tolerance might build up
It has side effects like headaches, dizziness, and fatigue
Frequent usage leads to acid hypersecretion
Note:Â Acid Hypersecretion may even lead to serious conditions like peptic-ulcers, and other gastrointestinal issues. It is also one of the reasons why GERD is caused in the first place.
#3 PPIs (Proton Pump Inhibitors)
PPIs block the enzyme system that produces the acid, offering a long-lasting relief for GERD. However, their continuous use has resulted in serious health issues like nutrient malabsorption.
Drawbacks:Â
It can take days to reach full effectiveness
There is an increased risk of kidney disease and bone fractures
It may disrupt gut microbiome and make the gut more prone to infections
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How to Choose the Right OTC GERD Medication:
#1 Identify your symptom pattern:
Occasional, mild heartburn: start with antacids.
Frequent but manageable episodes: consider H2 blockers.
Daily, severe reflux: PPIsÂ
#2 Consider Side Effects and Potential Risks:
- Antacids may affect how other medications are absorbed.
- H2 blockers can interact with certain antifungal or HIV drugs.
- Long-term PPI use can cause Vitamin B12 deficiency and even make changes in the bone density.
#3 Read the Label for Dosing Guidelines
Do not exceed the maximum daily dose.
Follow instructions on timing relative to meals.
How to Effectively Use OTC GERD Medicines:
- Keep a symptom diary to track GERD triggers, timing, and which medicine works best.
- Chew antacid tablets thoroughly and take H2 blockers 30 to 60 minutes before a known GERD trigger.
- Don’t self-treat for longer than 14 days without consulting a healthcare provider.
- Combine lifestyle changes, like elevating your head at night and avoiding trigger foods, with medication.
Key takeaways:
Identify your GERD pattern before choosing an OTC medicine: antacids for occasional flare-ups, H2 blockers for frequent episodes, and PPIs for daily or severe reflux.
Gentle exercise helps with GERD and digestion: simple activities like walking, yoga, and breathing exercises can relieve symptoms naturally and support your gut health in long-term.
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Claisen is a 100% online platform designed to provide personalized relief for bloating, gas, and heartburn: perfect for people looking for safe and effective options to treat their GERD.
With Claisen, you can skip the guesswork and get instant relief.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
How do OTC antacids help relieve GERD symptoms?
OTC antacids neutralize existing stomach acid on contact, providing rapid relief from heartburn and acid reflux. They work within minutes and are ideal for occasional or mild GERD.
When should I choose an H2 blocker for my GERD?
H2 receptor blockers are best for people who experience GERD symptoms more than twice a week or have nighttime reflux.
Can children or pregnant women use OTC GERD medications?
Antacids are generally considered safe for older children and pregnant women. However, always check with a pediatrician or obstetrician before starting any GERD treatment.
What makes PPIs the strongest OTC option for GERD?
Proton pump inhibitors block the final step of gastric acid secretion, providing up to 24 hours relief from GERD per dose.
