How to Treat GERD Symptoms with OTC Drugs
Treatments for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
Sep 22, 2009
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a disease in which the acid from the stomach is able to leak into the esophagus. The GERD symptoms of burning pain are often given the term “heartburn.” Heartburn occurs after a person eats certain foods, exercises, or during sleep. GERD is not only painful, but it can also lead to severe side effects including cancer. For some people with excruciating pain, GERD symptoms may even lead them to a trip to the emergency room. For some patients, GERD requires the attention of a physician. However, some medications are available that are over-the-counter (OTC). These medications are an affordable way to treat GERD without requiring a prescription.
Antacid GERD Treatments
Medications like Tums help neutralize the acid in the stomach. Tums are associated with limiting the gas and relieving abdominal pain. Tums are very basic, so they neutralize the acid in the stomach. These medications are also sold in flavors, so they are easy medications to take when GERD symptoms arise. Antacids should be used in conjunction with other medications for GERD. These drugs can cause constipation and diarrhea when overused.
Zantac is a GERD Treatment that Blocks Acid
OTC drugs like Zantac block the receptors in the body that produce acid. These drugs do not have the quick effect like antacids. Zantac is categorized as an H-2 blocker. H-2 blockers restrict the amount of histamine that is released. Histamine is responsible for the amount of acid that is produced in the stomach. When histamine is blocked by drugs like Zantac, the stomach no longer produces the normal amounts of acid. This limits the amount of acid that can build up and enter the esophagus, causing less pain in GERD patients.
Prevacid Treats GERD by Blocking Acid Pumps
Drugs like Prevacid are similar to Zantac, except these drugs actually block the pumps that create the acid in the stomach. These drugs are given to patients with ulcers, so they are very effective way to allow the stomach to heal and lower the amount of traffic produced. Prevacid is in a group of drugs called proton pump inhibitors. These have replaced drugs like H-2 blockers as a more preferred way to treat GERD.
Patients with GERD should see a doctor, but while GERD symptoms continue, these OTC drugs are a good alternative. Do not allow GERD to continue, because extreme GERD symptoms can lead to more serious effects like cancer and trouble swallowing.
References:
The MayoClinic Page on GERD Symptoms and Treatment
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