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Acid Reflux Symptom & Acid Reflux Diet |
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Home > Search > Acid RefluxPhase 2 : Medications Treat to Acid Reflux8 Medications for Acid Reflux - 3Author : Tipsinlife.com
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Drug Combinations :
○ Over-the-counter antacids and H2 blockers
This combination may
be the best approach for many people who experience heartburn
after eating. Both classes of drugs are effective in relieving GERD, but have different timing.
Antacids work within a few
minutes but are short-acting, while H2 blockers take longer but
benefits are long lasting. Pepcid AC combined with an antacid
(calcium carbonate and magnesium) is now available as Pepcid Complete.
○ Proton pump inhibitors and H2 blockers
Physicians sometimes
recommend a nighttime dose of an H2 blocker for people who are
taking proton-pump inhibitors twice a day. This is based on the
belief that adding the H2 blocker will prevent a rise in acid
reflux at night.
An important 2002 study, however, reported no
additional benefits from the nighttime H2 blocker. Some experts
recommended an H2 blocker in these patients only to prevent
breakthrough symptoms, such as before a heavy meal.
Long Term Complications.
In most cases, these agents have good safety
profiles and few side effects. H2 blockers
can interact with other drugs, although some
less so than other. In all cases, however,
the physician should be made aware of any
other drugs a patient is taking. More
research is needed. Anyone with kidney
problems should use famotidine only under
the direction of a physician.
Concerns and Limitations.
Some experts
are concerned that the use of acid-blocking
drugs in people with peptic ulcers may mask
ulcer symptoms of ulcers and increase the
risk for serious complications.
These agents provide no protection against Barrett's esophagus. In fact, of concern are reports that long-term acid suppression with these drugs may cause cancerous changes in the stomach in patients who are infected with H. pylori. Research on this question is still on-going.
Next page for Medications for Acid Reflux :
6. Proton-Pump Inhibitors
7. Agents that Protect the Mucus Lining (Sucralfate) ; 8. Anti-Spasm Drugs Prevent Acid and Non-Acid Reflux
1. Magnesium ; 2. Calcium ; 3. Aluminum
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