Rolaids is an over-the-counter antacid that offers relief from heartburn, acid indigestion and upset stomach. It is available in regular and extra-strength formulations. The active ingredients in Rolaids are calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide. There are many alternatives to Rolaids, including similar over-the-counter medications, prescription medications and alternative therapies.
Over-the-Counter Antacids
Several over-the-counter medications are designed to treat acid indigestion and heartburn. Proton pump inhibitors, H2 blockers, and acid neutralizers are the types that are available. Proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec OTC and Prevacid are for frequent attacks of heartburn that usually occur more than one or two times a week. Proton pump inhibitors are usually taken before meals, according to Drugs.com. Over-the-counter medications that reduce existing amounts of acid are Alka Seltzer, Tums, Milk of Magnesia, Pepto Bismol, Gaviscon and Maalox. Many of these antacids come in tablet and liquid forms.
Prescription Antacids
For symptoms that aren't controlled by the lower doses of the over-the-counter options, prescription medications are available. Zantac, Pepcid, and Tagamet are H2 blockers and Nexium is a proton pump inhibitor, all of which reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach.
Alternative Therapies and Home Remedies
According to the Mayo Clinic, alternative therapies like guided imagery and relaxation techniques may offer some relief from acid indigestion caused by stress and anxiety. Light exercise and massage may also offer benefits. Alfalfa, ginger and peppermint may offer benefits according to the book Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Herbs can be taken in capsule form or brewed to make a tea that can be sipped throughout the day.
Eliminating foods from the diet that have caused past stomach upset or that irritated the gastrointestinal tract when consumed may offer some relief. Adding yogurt to the diet may reintroduce good bacteria that could have been lost due to illness or the use of antibiotics.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Heartburn
- Prescription for Nutritional Healing; Phyllis Balch; 2006
- Rolaids
- Drugs.com: Antacids
