Pharmacist Recommended Products for Acid Reflux
Acid reflux could be treated with different products based on the severity and frequency of occurance.
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For immediate relief, choose Tums®, Rolaids®, or Mylanta®.
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For prevention or longer-lasting control, use Pepcid® or Tagamet HB®.
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For frequent and severe heartburn, a PPI (Prilosec®, Prevacid®, Nexium®) is most effective.
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Always see a doctor if heartburn occurs more than twice per week, is accompanied by difficulty swallowing, or includes vomiting blood or black stools.
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Mylanta® (Alu+Mag+Simethicone)
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​Want to learn more, read the product description below.
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Tums® (Calcium Carbonate) – A fast-acting chewable antacid that neutralizes stomach acid for quick, short-term relief of mild heartburn or sour stomach.
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Rolaids® (Calcium Carbonate + Magnesium Hydroxide) – Works similarly to Tums but lasts a bit longer. Useful for occasional flare-ups after meals. Low constipation risk.
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Mylanta® (Aluminum Hydroxide + Magnesium Hydroxide + Simethicone) – A liquid option that soothes the stomach and also relieves gas-related bloating.
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Pepcid® (Famotidine) – An H2 blocker that starts working within an hour and lasts up to 12 hours. Good for mild to moderate heartburn or preventing symptoms before eating trigger foods.
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Tagamet HB® (Cimetidine) – Another H2 blocker similar to Pepcid®. Effective for prevention but may interact with other medications, so check with a pharmacist if you’re taking prescriptions.
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Prilosec OTC® (Omeprazole) – A proton pump inhibitor (PPI) for frequent and severe heartburn (2+ times per week). Provides 24-hour prevention when used daily for 14 days but is not for immediate relief.
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Prevacid 24HR® (Lansoprazole) – A daily PPI that helps control frequent and severe heartburn by reducing stomach acid all day. Best taken before breakfast.
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Nexium 24HR® (Esomeprazole) – Another long-acting PPI that targets acid production at the source. Provides full-day protection but may take several days to reach maximum benefit.
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