Best Medication For Acid Reflux

If you are looking for the best medication for acid reflux, you must read this article. Acid reflux medication sometimes becomes necessary for a good night sleep. Acid reflux is the back flow of the stomach acid and contents into the esophagus. Episodes of acid reflux are more frequent when one lies down after a meal. This causes discomfort and can accompany severe pain in the chest, sometimes similar to a heart attack. Chronic acid reflux can be fatal and can cause many complications such as esophageal ulcers, cancer etc. Hence, it is always advisable to take acid reflux medications to cure the problem and get some relief.

Acid reflux occurs primarily because of the following reasons: Firstly if the food content in the stomach is acidic; Secondly, because the lower sphincter muscle is not able to handle the acidic pressure and opens up to let the food out into the esophagus. Overeating is a common phenomenon in parties and on days of festivities and celebrations. The oily and spicy food served in these places is sure to give heartburn to the people. Acid reflux medications ease the feelings of discomfort and help one sleep better.

Best Over-The-Counter Acid Reflux Medications

The most commonly available acid reflux medications are the antacids. These come in tablets and even in liquid form. They come in various colors and flavors and their primary aim is to provide instant relief from the irritating and burning sensation caused due to acid reflux. Mylanta, Gelusil are some of the most popularly used antacids, though there are many more. The negative side effect of antacid acid reflux medications is that they can cause constipation, diarrhea, and stomach cramps etc.

The second in the category of acid reflux mediations is the H-2 receptor blockers. These are available over the counter as half the strength of prescription acid reflux medications. Ranitidine, Famotidine, Cimetidine etc. are some common examples. These address the acid reflux episodes by reducing the acid production. These can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and a feeling of dry mouth in some people.

The third group of acid reflux medications is that of the Proton Pump Inhibitors. This group works by blocking the production of acid and allows the healing of the damaged esophagus. It was previously available only by prescription but lately it is made an OTC drug. However, these should be used only for a short period of time. Omeprazole is one e.g. of this group.

Best Prescription Acid Reflux Medications

Prescription acid reflux medications reduce or eliminate the symptoms of acid reflux as well as promote healing of the esophagus. These should be administered as advised by the doctor. Normally, acid reflux medications are taken before meal.

Prescription strength H-2 receptor blockers are the commonly prescribed acid reflux medications. Zantac, Pepcid etc are some common examples. Prescription strength proton pump inhibitors are also available. In fact, these are the most effective long term acid reflux medications available. They have fewer side effects. Omeprazole, Panoprazole, Rabeprazole are some examples belonging to this group.

Apart from the above discussed acid reflux medications, prokinetic agents are also known to relieve the problem. These work by tightening the esophageal valve and emptying the stomach faster so as to prevent acid accumulation. However, they are still in research stage.

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