Over the counter medication or drugs for Heartburn

Heartburn

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Over The Counter Drugs for Heartburn

Introduction_for_Heartburn
OTC Medications for Heartburn
When to Seek Medical Help for Heartburn

Introduction for Heartburn

Heartburn also known as pyrosis refers to the painful burning sensation felt in the upper part of the food tube near the breastbone. The pain is felt in the chest and it also extends up to the throat. Numerous over-the-counter (OTC) medications are available for relief of heartburn. Pregnant women and children should take medical advice before taking any of these medications.^1–3

OTC Medications for Heartburn

The common OTC medications for heartburn can be grouped as follows:^2–4

Antacids

Bismuth subsalicylate

H2 blockers

Proton pump inhibitors

Read more about Over The Counter Drugs for Heartburn

When to Seek Medical Help for Heartburn

Prompt medical attention should be sought in the following cases:

Frequent episodes of heartburn that is not relieved with OTC medication for a few weeks.
Unintentional weight loss.
Difficulty in swallowing.
Presence of other symptoms along with heartburn.
Worsening of symptoms after taking antacids or H₂-blockers.
Consumption of medications that may be causing heartburn.

Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: March 22 , 2012

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References

DeVault KR, Castell DO. Updated guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Am J Gastroenterol. 2005; 100: 190–200.
Smith L. Updated ACG Guidelines for Diagnosis and Treatment of GERD. Am Fam Physician. 2005; 71(12): 2376–2382.
American Academy of Family Physicians. Antacids and Acid Reducers: OTC Relief for Heartburn and Acid Reflux. [homepage on the Internet]. Leawood, KS: American Academy of Family Physicians. Available at: http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/otc-center/otc-medicines/854.htm. Accessed on: 6 August 2008.
McCarthy D. Living with chronic heartburn: Insights into its debilitating effects. Gastroenterol Clin North Am. 2003; 32(3 Suppl): S1–S9.