Medication Used to Control Acid Reflux Disease

According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearing House, gastroesophageal reflux, also known as acid reflux, occurs when food and digestive acids from the stomach rise up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest or throat.

First Steps

• Medication is recommended when acid reflux can't be controlled with lifestyle changes, such as avoiding certain foods, coffee, smoking or other possible triggers, and lowering alcohol consumption.

Over The Counter Medications

• Antacids are used to relieve mild symptoms by neutralizing the acid in the stomach. Histamine blockers reduce the amount of acid the stomach makes, while proton pump inhibitors stop the body's production of acid to an even greater degree.

Prescription Medications

• Prescription-strength histamine blockers and proton pump inhibitors also relieve the symptoms of acid reflux. Prokinetic medications make the stomach empty faster, and may strengthen the valve that prevents acid from escaping the stomach into the esophagus.

Secondary Uses

• While some medical professionals have thought that certain acid reflux medications might help control asthma, a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that treatment with these medications does not improve asthma control.

Warning

• Do not use more than one antacid or acid reducer at a time. Histamine blockers and proton pump inhibitors can react with other medications such as Coumadin and Dilantin, as well as certain prescription medicines for fungus or yeast.