A Guide to Managing Stomach Acid

Acid Reflux and Heartburn

Acid reflux occurs when your stomach acid comes up into your throat and causes a burning sensation. This is often referred to as "heartburn". It can happen to anyone at any time. However, there are certain individuals and lifestyles in which it will occur more often. This includes those who are over 40 years of age, overweight, and eat high fat foods. While some of these risk factors are unavoidable, there are lifestyle changes you can make to reduce the frequency you are experiencing acid reflux.

Learn more about lifestyle changes you can make to help prevent acid reflux

Frequent Heartburn is a Medical Condition called GERD

While heartburn is uncomfortable, it does not always cause damage if it is occurring infrequently. However, when it happens regularly, as defined by more than twice per week for multiple months, it then becomes considered a medical condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While acid reflux and heartburn can be self-treated by over-the-counter (OTC) products, GERD must be investigated and treated by your healthcare provider.

Treating GERD

GERD is more serious because the frequent reflux of acid into your throat over time may cause serious damage. Because of this, GERD needs to be treated by prescription medication.

Learn more about the differences between PPIs and H2RAs

The two main types of medications that are prescribed to treat GERD are proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs). Both medications work very well short-term, but PPIs seem to be more effective for longer-term treatment. However, PPIs do have risks associated with long-term use.

Learn about the health risks when taking PPIs long-term

Medications to Treat GERD

The below links provide a clinical overview of each of the 6 common medications prescribed at Marley Drug for the treatment of GERD:

• Medication guide for Pantoprazole (generic Protonix)
• Medication guide for Omeprazole DR (generic Prilosec)
• Medication guide for Esomeprazole DR (generic Nexium DR)
• Medication guide for Famotidine (generic Pepcid)
• Medication guide for Cimetidine (generic Tagamet TA)
• Medication guide for Lansoprazole DR (generic Prevacid 24HR)