Stop Heartburn! Medications that can Work for You
If you have ever suffered with the occasional bout of heartburn, you know how uncomfortable those symptoms can be. Now imagine dealing with the condition multiple times every week! This is the plight of many Americans today, but the good news is that heartburn help is on the way. If you are looking for methods to stop heartburn, you may not need to look any further than your neighborhood pharmacy. There are many good over the counter medications that can stop heartburn in its tracks, and some are even effective at preventing it before it begins. We will give you a brief overview of the over the counter medications available and what each one can do for you.
Antacids
Antacids fall under commercial names like Maalox, Mylanta, Rolaids and Tums. These medications are often the doctors' first recommendation to stop heartburn in the occasional sufferer. The job of the antacids is to neutralize the acid in the stomach, which will put an end to the burning sensation that it causes. However, antacids are not always the medication of choice for frequent heartburn sufferers, since they do not heal esophagus damage that can result from frequent bouts, and overuse of this medication can lead to constipation or diarrhea.
H-2 Receptor Blockers
You will recognize H-2 receptor blockers by names like Tagamet, Pepcid or Zantac. These medications stop heartburn by reducing the acid production of the body. H-2 receptor blockers do not work as quickly as antacids, but the effects can go on for a longer period of time. It is best to take one of these medications approximately 30 minutes before eating a meal that you think might give you heartburn. They can also be used before bed to stop heartburn at night. If the over the counter variety is not effective enough for you, your doctor also has this medication in prescription strength.
Proton Pump Inhibitors
If there is a concern that frequent heartburn has resulted in damage to the lining of the esophagus, a proton pump inhibitor may be the best way to stop heartburn. These medications go by commercial names like Prilosec, which used to be a prescription medicine but is now available over the counter for short term treatment. Prilosec will block the production of acid and allow the esophagus time to heal. Proton pump inhibitors also come in prescription strength for those who need extra help to stop heartburn.
Heartburn is an uncomfortable condition, but help is available. These medications have all proven effective to stop heartburn, leading many to enjoy more symptom-free days and nights. Talk to your doctor today about the best way for you to stop heartburn. You will be very glad you did.
