Non Prescription Medication for Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a condition where the muscles that keep your digestive juices contained in your stomach weaken, allowing acid to enter your esophagus. For mild cases of acid reflux, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter or non-prescription medications.

Identification

• The most commonly used non-prescription medications for acid reflux are antacids, H-2 receptor blockers, and proton pump inhibitors.

Function

• Antacid medications neutralize your stomach acid, relieving acid reflux, while H-2 receptor blockers inhibit your body's production of stomach acid. Proton pump inhibitors not only block stomach production, but also help your esophagus.

Types

• Antacid medications include aluminum hydroxide, calcium carbonate, and magnesium hydroxide. Common over-the-counter H-2 receptor blockers include cimetidine and famotidine, while proton pump inhibitors include lansoprazole and ompeprazole.

Time Frame

• If over-the-counter medications do not provide relief from acid reflux within two weeks, you should see your doctor as you may need stronger medications, recommends the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.

Side Effects

• Antacid medications have the potential to cause diarrhea and vomiting, reports the Mayo Clinic. Proton pump and H-2 receptor inhibtors may cause headaches and dizziness.