Pump-inhibitor medications, referred to as proton pump inhibitors or PPIs, are medications used to reduce stomach acid production. Nineteen different types of PPI are listed on Drugs.com, a standard online reference on pharmaceuticals. According to "Consumer Reports," PPIs are generating significant revenues in the pharmaceutical industry with Nexium alone bringing in $4.8 billion in 2008. A good choice for those suffering chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease, in "Consumer Reports" estimation, PPIs should not be used to treat occasional heartburn.
How They Work
Proton pump inhibitor medications block the production of gastric, or stomach acid at the cellular level. They will not cure the disease, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease or ulcers, but they will decrease the acidity within the stomach. By decreasing gastric acid production, the pH is raised to less erosive number than the normal gastric pH of 1 to 2. Therefore, even though the reflux may continue, damage will not occur to the esophagus and oral structures such as teeth.
Over-The-Counter
Many PPIs are available for over-the-counter purchase. These medications, including omeprazole, lansoprazole and aciphex are available as generics or as the brand names of Prilosec, Prevacid and Zegerid. The main difference between generic and brand name PPIs is the price. "Consumer Reports" states that the average person would save about $200 a month by switching to the generic PPIs without a change in the symptom reductions of the drug.
Prescription
Some PPIs, including Protonix and Nexium, require a prescription. Protonix is also vailable by prescription in a generic form. Many of the same PPIs that are available over-the-counter, such as Prevacid and Aciphex, are also available by prescription only. The transfer of a prescription drug to over-the-counter rests with the pharmaceutical company; simply because some PPIs are prescription only does not necessarily mean they are more effective, "Consumer Reports" notes. The benefit of brand name prescriptions is cost reimbursement; some insurance companies will not pay for over-the-counter pills.
