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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common, affecting an estimated 18%–28% of people who live in North America. GERD is a condition that occurs when bile or stomach acid causes irritation in the esophagus, the hollow, muscular tube leading from the throat to the stomach. People who have symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn more than twice a week may be living with GERD. Treating GERD often includes changes to diet and lifestyle, but medications are also sometimes needed. Verywell / Jessica Olah GERD may be treated with a variety of medications. There are both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs available. A combination of different drugs might be used to treat GERD, including both those that require a prescription and those available without one. More than one drug may be needed at the same time (called combination therapy) to control symptoms. To ensure you are getting the right therapy, talk to your healthcare provider about your GERD symptoms, as well as any OTC medications you are using for it. Antacids Antacids are commonly used to treat heartburn. They work to neutralize stomach acid. Antacids don’t address the source of GERD, only the symptoms, so they are typically only used for short periods of time. Some of the OTC antacids available to treat GERD include:Gaviscon (aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate)Mylanta (aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide)Rolaids (calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide)Tums (calcium carbonate) Proton Pump Inhibitors Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are an often-used option for managing GERD. These medications work to treat the symptoms by blocking the production of stomach acid. With less stomach acid, there may be fewer symptoms of GERD. A PPI may be prescribed by a medical professional, but some forms are available over the counter. It's important to discuss your use of OTC PPIs with a healthcare provider because
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