Heartburn is a painful burning in the chest or throat that happens when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus and throat. According to the American College of Gastroenterology, more than 60 million Americans experience heartburn at least once a month. MedlinePlus states that mild heartburn can be treated using over-the-counter antacids, while heartburn that occurs more than twice a week requires prescription medication
Antacids
According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, a mild case of heartburn is treated with antacids. Antacids neutralize stomach acid and are available without a prescription. Examples of antacids include Maalox, Mylanta and Tums. Common side effects of antacids are constipation and diarrhea. Antacids containing aluminum could cause constipation, while antacids containing magnesium may cause diarrhea. Aluminum and magnesium salts are often combined in a single drug to balance these effects.
H2 Blockers
The ACG states that H2 blockers decrease stomach acid by blocking the action of histamine on stomach cells. Histamine is a hormone that signals the stomach to produce hydrochloric acid. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disease, H2 blockers are more effective in treating heartburn than antacids. H2 blockers are available over the counter and as prescriptions. Examples of H2 blockers include Tagamet, Zantac and Pepcid. Common side effects of H2 blockers include headache, dizziness, diarrhea, constipation and abdominal pain.
Proton Pump Inhibitors
According to ACG, proton pump inhibitors reduce the production of stomach acid by blocking the enzyme on the wall of the stomach that produces acid. NIDDK states that proton pump inhibitors are more effective than the H2 blockers in relieving severe heartburn. Examples of proton pump inhibitors include Prilosec, Zegerid, Prevacid, Protonix, Aciphex and Nexium. Common side effects of proton pump inhibitors are headache, abdominal pain, diarrhea, rash and constipation.
Forming Agents
According to ACG, forming agents relieve heartburn by coating the stomach contents with foam to prevent reflux. Gaviscon is an example of a forming agent used to treat heartburn. Common side effects of foaming agents include chalky taste, increased thirst, abdominal cramps, constipation and diarrhea.
Prokinetics
According to ACG, prokinetics help strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter and speed stomach emptying. Reglan is an example of a prokinetic used to treat heartburn. Common side effects of prokinetics include fatigue, sleepiness, depression, anxiety and problems sleeping.
