A Swallow Away: Acid Reflux Medications

Acid reflux is a condition that is painful and can sometimes become chronic. This condition is usually only present in the esophagus but has been known to sometimes present in the lungs. When someone suffers from this, it is usually caused by the backup for acid in the stomach going up through the esophagus.

There are many reasons acid reflux can appear. Some of these reasons include people eating too much or eating an over acidic food. A lot of the bad foods are citrus fruits, dairy products, and heavy meats. Lifestyle situations such as smoking and drinking can cause acid reflux also.

Taking acid reflux into consideration many different options become available for treatment. Some of those steps include abstaining from acidic foods, elevating the upper part of the body when sleeping and the use of acid reflux medications. There are basically two types of acid reflux medications that are available to an individual suffering from acid reflux. The two acid reflux medication types are over the counter and also prescription medicine.

Over-the-counter Medications

Many over the counter acid reflux medications can be found in a store near you. Usually these medications are in liquid form or sometimes tablets commonly known as antacids.

Both of these forms can quell smaller attacks and usually work to decrease acid. On the whole, the over the counter acid reflux medication will make the symptoms go away but the underlying cause will stay. There are many different brand names of antacids but most of the over the counter medication is generally the same.

It is very important to remember that those taking over the counter acid reflux medications should be doing so only on a short-term basis, this will not cure acid reflux disease. Most directions on the back of the labels of over the counter acid reflux medications state that you should not use the medicine for more than 2 weeks. Consequently, a physician should be sought if any symptoms persist past this time frame.

In addition, side effects may present with taking these acid reflux medications. Some of those side effects may include constipation or diarrhea, stomach cramps, or an increased thirst.

Prescription Medications

Just like the over the counter medication, there are many prescription acid reflux medications available to reflux sufferers. Two common types of acid reflux medications are the acid suppressants and the proton pump inhibitors.

The acid suppressants help to block the production of acid in the stomach. This particular type of acid reflux medication sends a chemically induced signal to the body that helps to reduce the production of acid in the stomach. Examples of this type of medication include Zantac, Pepcid, Tagamet, and Axid.

The action of the proton pump inhibitor also helps to reduce the production of acid in the stomach. However, this particular medication deals directly with the cells found in the stomach wall. This interaction with these cells that produce acid helps to minimize the secretion of acid into the stomach. Examples of this type of medication are Nexium, Zoton, Protium and Paret.