Acid Reflux(Heartburn)
Over the counter relief options
What is heartburn and what relief is available over the counter?
Heartburn is a digestive condition caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus which irritates the lining of the esophagus and creates a burning or sour sensation in the chest or throat. Symptoms often appear after eating large or spicy meals, lying down too soon after eating, or consuming trigger foods such as caffeine, chocolate, citrus, or fatty foods.
Symptoms of acid reflux can include burning chest pain, regurgitation of sour or bitter fluid, difficulty swallowing, chronic cough, hoarseness, or throat irritation. Discomfort may worsen at night or when bending over. Lifestyle adjustments in addition to over-the-counter medications play a key role in reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.
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Pharmacist-recommended products​​
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Tums® (Calcium Carbonate)
A fast-acting chewable antacid that neutralizes stomach acid on contact, providing quick, short-term relief of mild heartburn, acid indigestion, or sour stomach. Best for occasional flare-ups after meals or certain trigger foods.
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Rolaids® (Calcium Carbonate + Magnesium Hydroxide)
Works similarly to Tums® but has a longer-lasting effectdue to the magnesium component. A good choice for episodic heartburn with a lower risk of constipation compared to calcium-only products.
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Mylanta® (Aluminum Hydroxide + Magnesium Hydroxide + Simethicone)
A smooth, liquid antacid that coats and soothes the stomach while also easing gas and bloating thanks to simethicone. Ideal for people experiencing heartburn with pressure or fullness.
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Pepcid® (Famotidine)
An H2 blocker that reduces acid production and begins working in about 30–60 minutes, lasting up to 12 hours. Useful for mild to moderate heartburn or as preventive relief before eating foods known to trigger symptoms.
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Tagamet HB® (Cimetidine)
Similar to Pepcid® in its acid-reducing action but more prone to drug interactions, especially with prescription medications. Still effective for prevention and mild heartburn but best used under pharmacist guidance if taking other drugs.
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Prilosec OTC® (Omeprazole)
A proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that provides 24-hour acid control when taken daily. Best for frequent heartburn (two or more days per week). Not intended for immediate relief, as it may take 1–4 days to become fully effective.
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Prevacid 24HR® (Lansoprazole)
Another daily PPI for long-term suppression of stomach acid. Works best when taken before breakfast and is effective for preventing recurring heartburn and acid reflux symptoms.
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Nexium 24HR® (Esomeprazole)
A potent, long-acting PPI that targets acid production at its source. Provides full-day protection and may take several days to achieve peak benefit. A strong option for ongoing or severe heartburn patterns.
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For the fastest relief, choose Tums® or Rolaids®, which neutralize acid on contact and work within minutes—ideal for sudden heartburn after eating trigger foods.
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For heartburn with gas or bloating, choose Mylanta®, which adds simethicone to relieve pressure and fullness along with acid discomfort.
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For longer-lasting prevention, use Pepcid®, which starts in 30–60 minutes and lasts up to 12 hours—good before eating foods that usually cause symptoms.
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For people taking other medications, use Tagamet HB® with caution due to its higher interaction potential; it works but requires pharmacist guidance.
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For frequent heartburn (2+ times per week), choose a daily PPI like Prilosec®, Prevacid®, or Nexium®. These offer 24-hour control but are not for immediate relief.
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For morning or nighttime reflux, a PPI is especially helpful because it suppresses acid production around the clock.
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Seek medical care if heartburn is persistent, occurs with swallowing difficulty, or includes vomiting blood or black stools.
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