If you’ve experienced the discomfort of heartburn, you have probably tried some medicines to treat the condition. Heartburn symptoms emerge when the valve between your esophagus and your stomach isn’t able to close properly, and potent stomach acid rises into your esophagus and throat.
Medications for heartburn symptoms include antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors. All three can be effective, and this discussion may help you decide which type of medication is indicated for your situation.
1. Antacids
Antacids are the chewable and liquid products, such as Rolaids or Mylanta, that you see on the grocery store shelves. The calcium carbonate and magnesium compounds in antacids temporarily neutralize stomach acid within five to 10 minutes. Though effective and fast-acting, these medications will generally stop working in 30 to 60 minutes.
2. H2 Blockers
If your symptoms are persistent, you may want to try something stronger than antacids. H2 blockers are preventative medications that provide relief by blocking an acid-producing agent called histamine.
These medications are not intended for long-term use as they lose effectiveness within two to six weeks. H2 blockers are best used as a temporary jump-start, accompanied by lasting lifestyle changes. Reducing acid-causing foods, losing weight, and elevating your upper body while sleeping can be good practices to introduce.
Ranitidine, famotidine, and cimetidine, commonly called Zantac, Pepcid, and Tagamet, are the most common H2 blockers. You may have heard about the connection between Zantac and cancer. A component of Zantac has been linked to certain types of cancer, and the drug has now been recalled. At this time, the contaminants appear to be specific to ranitidine and not the whole H2 class of medications.
3. Proton Pump Inhibitors
In light of the association between Zantac and cancer, acid reflux medications are under scrutiny. Some studies show long-term use of PPIs may predispose individuals to increased cancer risk. It’s best to use all of these medications short-term while implementing permanent diet, sleep, and weight changes. If the medications discussed here don’t help you, it’s recommended you visit your doctor for an evaluation.
Whether your acid-related problem is new or chronic, these medicines can help you temporarily eliminate the symptoms while you implement more permanent lifestyle changes. It’s important to remember they are considered safe and effective when used temporarily and as directed.
