Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive condition in which stomach acid travels back up the esophagus causing irritation and the symptoms associated with GERD. The most common symptoms of GERD include acid reflux and heartburn. It is common to occasionally have heartburn and acid indigestion, but individuals with GERD experience symptoms at least twice per week. Medications and lifestyle changes are the most common ways to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease.
Antacids
Antacids are a class of drugs designed to neutralize stomach acid to quickly relieve the symptoms of GERD. Antacids are beneficial for infrequent and mild symptoms of GERD as they provide rapid relief, are taken by mouth, and available over-the-counter (OTC). Antacids can be either aluminum, magnesium, or calcium-based and are available in liquid, tablet, or powder form. The medications are quickly removed from the stomach and thus provide only short-term relief of symptoms.
H2 Blockers
Also called histamine antagonists, H2 blockers are a class of drugs designed to decrease the amount of acid the stomach produces. Individuals with moderate and more frequent symptoms of GERD are the best candidates for H2 blockers. Although the drugs take approximately an hour to take effect, they provide relief for longer periods of time compared to antacids. H2 blockers are available in prescription and non-prescription strengths and generally are administered orally around 30 minutes for meals.
Proton Pump Inhibitors
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) work on the cells of the stomach to decrease the amount of acid produced. They are often prescribed for more severe symptoms of GERD after antacids and H2 blockers have been shown not to work. PPIs are also helpful in relieving the symptom of esophagitis, a condition that often occurs with severe GERD. PPIs work to prevent the acid pumping cells of the gastrointestinal tract from producing acid. PPIs prevent acid production for longer periods of time and more completely as compared to H2 blockers. The drugs are administered orally an hour before mealtime.
