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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Example: Zegerid contains a PPI omeprazole with an antacid sodium bicarbonate.Pepcid Complete is a combination of famotidine (an H2 antagonist), calcium carbonate (an antacid), and magnesium hydroxide (an antacid). 5. Prokinetic Drugs Another class of prescription drugs, prokinetic agents, are prescribed to people with severe acid reflux. They are most often prescribed when other treatments do not work. Prokinetic drugs stimulate the gastrointestinal (GI) tract muscles and strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to prevent acid reflux. The LES is a muscle at the bottom of the esophagus that prevents stomach contents from rising back up. These drugs also speed up food movement through the GI tract. Reglan (metoclopramide) is available as a tablet, an orally disintegrating (dissolving) tablet, and a solution (liquid). It is taken four times a day, 30 minutes before each meal and at bedtime. Potential side effects of Reglan may include: DrowsinessFatigueDiarrheaRestlessnessMovement problemsCan You Take Acid Reflux Medication Every Day?It's not recommended to take acid reflux medications every day without your healthcare provider's approval. Persistent or severe symptoms warrant seeking guidance from a healthcare professional. They may prescribe medications, like PPIs, if your symptoms don't improve.For short-term relief, taking acid reflux medications daily is generally safe for a few weeks at a time. For example, you can take PPIs or histamine antagonists daily for up to two weeks.Some research has suggested that long-term use of these medications can cause negative health consequences. However, the evidence for this is mixed, and research is ongoing. Which One Works Best? OTC medicines can relieve your symptoms to varying degrees. They are the first-line choice for mild symptoms. If you have more severe heartburn, you may need a more potent prescription medicine, such as a PPI. The dosage of the medicine depends on the severity of the symptoms. PPIs are sometimes better at treating acid reflux symptoms than H2 blockers. They are considered more effective at healing the esophageal lining to relieve these symptoms. A Word From Verywell HealthWhen selecting a medication, consider the duration and severity of your reflux. It can be helpful to think of the categories listed in this article in a stepwise manner. OTC antacids are typically first-line and used as needed for minor cases. The next step is an H2 blocker like Pepcid, which works quickly but can be a bit "stronger" than something like Tums. PPIs are next and are better used for consistent reflux. Symptoms that are severe or last more than a few weeks warrant a call to your provider. — LINDSAY COOK, PHARMD, MEDICAL EXPERT BOARD Summary Several OTC and prescription medications are available for controlling acid reflux. OTC medications such as antacids, H2 histamine blockers, and PPIs are quite effective
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