Nexium is a brand-name prescription medication used in the treatment of GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease. Esomeprazole is the generic name for Nexium. There are different prescription medications, lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications that can also be used to treat GERD. Your doctor can help you choose which options can best treat your specific symptoms.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Some over-the-counter medications can treat the symptoms of GERD. Antacids can help neutralize stomach acid with the use of magnesium, calcium, aluminum or a combination of the three. Foaming agents prevent reflux by covering the food in your stomach. H-2-receptor blockers decrease acid production. Proton pump inhibitors work to heal the esophagus and prevent acid production at the same time.
Prescription Medications
H-2-receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors also come in prescription strength for conditions that are not helped with over-the-counter treatments. Prokinetic agents are prescription medications that help the stomach empty faster and strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter, which is commonly affected in GERD.
Lifestyle Changes
Changes in your lifestyle and diet may make an improvement in symptoms of GERD. Keep stress at bay, as it can worsen heartburn. Elevate the head of your bed and avoid lying after meals to reduce the risk of stomach acids coming back up. Some foods commonly trigger symptoms of GERD, including acidic foods like lemons and oranges, milk, caffeine, carbonated drinks, chocolate, peppermint and spicy foods. Avoid eating two to three hours before bedtime. Being overweight can aggravate symptoms of GERD. Some medications including antidepressants and sedatives can trigger symptoms as well. Avoid tight-fitting clothing and belts.
Medical Procedures
Some severe or treatment-resistant forms of GERD may need surgical intervention, most of which is done laparoscopically. A Nissen fundoplication tightens the lower esophageal sphincter to help prevent reflux and is sometimes used to repair hiatal hernias. EndoCinch endoluminal gastroplication is a newer procedure that stitches an area near the esophageal sphincter to help prevent reflux. The Stretta system uses heat from electrodes to make tiny cuts or pleats and damages nerves associated with reflux. The surrounding muscles are strengthened as scar tissue is formed.
Holistic Treatments
According to The Duke Encyclopedia of Medicine, the extracts of angelica, chamomile, lemon balm, licorice, milk thistle and peppermint may be as effective as cisapride, a heartburn medication. "The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies" indicates ginger, gentian root, goldenseal and aromatic herbs such as catnip and fennel may be helpful as well. Try adding 1 tsp. of apple cider vinegar to half a cup of water and sip it during meals to prevent heartburn.
References
- "The Doctor's Book of Home Remedies"; Prevention Health; 2002
- The Duke Encyclopedia of New Medicine; The Center for Integrative Medicine at Duke University; 2006
- Mayo Clinic: GERD
- MedlinePlus: Esomeprazole
- NDDIC: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
