28Jul
There are several different medications available for acid reflux treatment and related conditions like indigestion. Most of these drugs require a prescription. Some are over-the-counter drugs that help ease symptoms when you have the occasional heartburn or indigestion.
Among the over-the-counter drugs, alginates and antacids are commonly used for acid reflux treatment. Many people have a ready supply of these medications at home and reach for them when they experience mild indigestion of heartburn. These drugs are effective in some cases and help relieve mild symptoms fairly quickly.
Commonly available alginates and antacids usually contain aluminum or magnesium. They work by neutralizing the acid produced by the stomach. Excess acid may be the cause of indigestion of symptoms of acid reflux.
Sodium alginate is often found in this group of drugs. It works by creating a protective coating on the stomach lining and gullet.
Some kinds of proton pump inhibitors are also used for acid reflux treatment. The stomach has a system called the proton pump which is responsible for acid production. Acid leakage from the proton pump into the esophagus can cause heartburn. Proton pump inhibitors tone down this system and bring relief to acid reflux sufferers.
Most proton pump inhibitors for acid reflux treatment come in the form of capsules or tablets. Some brands are available as a powder that must be mixed in water before consumption. Other brands are available for use in injections. The last are usually meant for treating Zollinger-Ellison, which is a relatively rare condition. Proton inhibitors in all forms can be used for treating acid reflux.
Popular proton pump inhibitors for acid reflux treatment include Lansoprazole and Omeprazole, among others. These drugs can cause side effects which include pain in the stomach, headaches, dizziness, constipation and breathing difficulties. The side effects, which may even include allergic reactions, can be quite severe at times. Therefore these drugs should be taken only under medical supervision.
H2 receptor antagonists are another kind of medication used for treating acid reflux. Cells in the stomach generate acid for digestion when they are stimulated by histamine as part of their normal functioning. This is achieved through the H2 receptor area. The H2 receptor antagonists block this receptor area and thus prevent acid formation.
Drugs like Famotidine, Ranitidine, Cimetidine, etc belong to this class. These drugs do have side effects like dizziness, headaches, a persistent feeling of tiredness and sometimes hair loss as well. Another similar drug called Nizatidine induces sweating in some people, apart from the other symptoms mentioned.
The occasional heartburn can be dealt with using over-the-counter drugs. However, they should not be used over an extended period of time. If symptoms persist, you should see a doctor who will prescribe an appropriate acid reflux treatment regime that includes medication as well as diet and lifestyle changes.
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The information contained in or made available through This Site cannot replace or substitute for the services of trained professionals in the medical field. We do not recommend any treatment, drug, food or supplement. You should regularly consult a doctor in all matters relating to physical or mental health, particularly concerning any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention.
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