Medicines and Products for GERD

Medicines for GERD reduce acid or protect the lining. A doctor should decide the choice and duration, especially if symptoms are frequent.

Antacids and alginates

Quick, short relief for occasional heartburn. Alginates form a layer that blocks reflux. They are not meant for long daily use without review.

H2 blockers

Medicines such as famotidine reduce acid for a few hours. They suit mild or night symptoms.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

Omeprazole, pantoprazole, esomeprazole and similar tablets are the main treatment. They are usually taken 30 to 60 minutes before a meal for 4 to 8 weeks, then reviewed. They heal oesophagitis best.

Other medicines

Prokinetics may be used by a doctor for slow stomach emptying.

Cautions

• Long-term PPI use without review can lower magnesium, B12 and affect bones, so use the lowest effective dose
• Stopping PPIs suddenly can cause rebound acid for a few weeks
• Some medicines worsen reflux, so ask about painkillers, calcium channel blockers and others you take
• Herbal digestive products are not proven to heal GERD
• Do not give acid medicines to infants or children unless a paediatrician advises

Key point

Chest pain with sweating or breathlessness, vomiting blood or black stools needs emergency care. Call 112 or 102.

Before you see a doctor

Bring a list of all your medicines and supplements to the appointment, along with a note of when symptoms occur, what you ate, and whether they wake you at night. This helps your doctor choose the right tests and treatment without delay.