Choose the Correct Heartburn Medication Wisely

Acid indigestion, or acid reflux, is a very uncomfortable feeling of burning in the chest. More commonly referred to as heartburn, it affects almost everyone at least once in their lives, most on an infrequent basis. Fortunately, there are several forms of heartburn medication available.

Occasional heartburn is not unusual, especially after eating an overly large meal or one with a lot of spices and acids. Many heartburn medications can be purchased at your local pharmacy and includes such names as Tums, Pepto-Bismol, Maalox and Rolaids, among others, along with generic choices.

These medications give your stomach short term relief and you should find one that taste pleasant for you. If, after taking this heartburn medication for up to two weeks there are still symptoms of heartburn, a physician should be consulted.

Stronger Medication for Severe Cases

A different type heartburn medication, Receptor Antagonists, better known as H2 blockers, send signals to the stomach, telling it not to release as much stomach acid as it usually does. H2 blockers do take some time before they bring relief. However, this is one heartburn medication which can be taken with antacids for immediate and longer relief. Never exceed two doses of an H2 blocker within a 24-hour period.

Brand names of such medications include Pepcid-AC, Tagamet HB and Zantac 75. These can be bought over-the-counter with stronger versions available by prescription. Their use should not exceed two weeks unless under a doctor's supervision.

A different type of stomach medication is a Proton pump, stopping most of acid created in the stomach It is sold under various brand names as well as generic equivalents and there are over-the-counter versions as well as stronger doses available by prescription.

Products that are well known Proton pumps are Pravicid and Prilosec. The use of proton pump inhibitors should be with caution as they may cause too little acid production, which could interfere with proper digestion. Additionally, proton pump inhibitors may cause reactions with other medications, both over-the-counter and prescription so advice from your physician or pharmacist is recommended.

If prescribed or over the counter medications do not work, revisit with your physician to discuss other options.

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Susan Atkinson writes for Cards & Stuff, for more articles please visit Email College

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