Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid, bile or other substances flow back up the esophagus from the stomach. The acid creates a burning sensation in the chest, often referred to as heartburn, while damaging the esophagus, larynx and sometimes the mouth. There are a variety of medicines available for treating acid reflux. Many come in both an over-the-counter (OTC) formula as well as a prescription version. Your doctor can help you select the right drug type for treating your acid reflux and suggest lifestyle changes to reduce discomfort.
Antacids
Antacids are intended to provide quick and temporary relief. The medication comes in a chewable tablet or a liquid formula. There are several OTC brands available, many of which contain supplemental vitamins or minerals like calcium. Within minutes of swallowing the medicine, an individual will no longer experience the symptoms of reflux, unless the acid volume is quite large, as indicated by the Mayo Clinic. Chronic acid reflux sufferers may not experience relief with antacids. This can be due to the quantity of acid produced and/or due to an individual requiring more than the daily dose to receive comfort. In these situations a different type of medication should be obtained, as the Mayo Clinic reports that other types of medications may be more likely to reduce the symptoms.
Acid Production Curbs
The Mayo Clinic describes a family of drugs that work to reduce acid production as H-2-receptor blockers. There are many different brands of drugs that fit into this family. The active ingredient varies among the brands and also between OTC and prescription versions. This type of medication does not provide immediate relief, but the drug's effects are longer-lasting. These medications are often safe for long-term use. They do require between one and four days before symptoms are reduced, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).
Proton Pump Inhibitors
Healing the damage caused by acid reflux can help in minimizing the pain and complications an individual experiences, the Mayo Clinic reports. The medication that heals esophageal tissue and blocks acid production is called a proton pump inhibitor, according to the Mayo Clinic. These medications work by changing the amount of acid produced within the stomach. With less acid in the stomach, the individual should experience a reduction in reflux. Proton pump inhibitors are often used only by individuals who experience chronic heartburn or have damage from chronic reflux. Even after acid reflux has stopped, an individual may continue using a proton pump inhibitor medication to heal erosion or ulcers left behind.
Combination Medications
Acid reflux can be treated with combination medications. These medications contain two types of acid reflux medications. An example of a combination medication is one that contains an acid production blocker and an antacid to provide both immediate and long-term relief.
