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How to Compare Proton Pump Inhibitors

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a serious condition, causing those affected by it to experience heartburn twice a week or more. To treat GERD, your doctor will likely prescribe a proton pump inhibitor (PPI).

  1. How They Work

    • Proton pump inhibitors are medications that work by decreasing the amount of acid made in the stomach. They are indicated for the treatment of GERD, a condition in which stomach acid flows backward, causing frequent heartburn and potential damage to the esophagus. There are seven PPIs currently on the market, with three of these also available in an over-the counter preparation.

    Prescription PPIs

    • All of the seven PPIs are available in a prescription-only version: Nexium (esomeprazole), Kapidex (dexlansoprazole), Prevacid (lansoprazole), Prilosec (omeprazole), Zegerid (omeprazole/sodium bicarbonate), Protonix (pantoprazole), and Aciphex (rabeprazole). Of these, only Prevacid and Protonix have generic equivalents available. Generic drugs contain the same active ingredient as the brand-name drug and usually cost significantly less.

    Over-the-Counter PPIs

    • According to Consumer Reports Health.org, three of the PPIs currently on the market are available in an over-the-counter preparation: omeprazole (Prilosec OTC), omeprazole/sodium bicarbonate (Zegerid OTC), and lansoprazole (Prevacid 24HR). These medications have the same active ingredient as the prescription version of the drug but are available without a prescription.

    Considerations

    • Cost is a major factor when choosing a PPI. The Consumer Reports study concluded that all the PPIs were roughly equal in effectiveness but varied significantly in cost. If you have health insurance, find out which PPIs your plan will cover. You can then discuss the lowest-cost options with your doctor.

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