How To Find Medications for GERD

Many people who experience persistent chest pains after eating a heavy meal or just by bending forward think they may have some heart issues. If you are one of them, worry no more as you may just have a medical condition called Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD. Aside from heartburn, there are a lot of other symptoms a GERD patient may have including:

• Hoarseness
• Cough
• Nausea
• Excessive saliva
• Swallowing difficulties

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately, as there are other medical conditions that may have similar results like peptic ulcer or infections in the digestive organs like the esophagus. If your diagnosis of having GERD is proven by your physician, here are available over-the-counter medications you can use:

• Antacids – While these are readily available, the dosage recommended for your treatment should be backed up by your physician, but carefully following the package instructions should take care of that matter. Antacids work by neutralizing the acids found in your stomach, reducing inflammation of the esophagus. Antacids may come in chewable tablets or liquids. The only side effects of taking this medication are that magnesium may accumulate in your kidneys and cause some damage. In some cases, antacids may cause diarrhea and constipation.
• Histamine-2 Blockers – This type of medication for GERD is suitable if you have not had any allergic reaction to Tagamet, Pepcid, Axid, and Zantac, which are some of the examples of Histamine-2 blockers. These medications help reduce the production of acids in the stomach. Since taking these drugs may have some negative interaction with certain food items like caffeine-based products, consulting your doctor regarding the possible outcome is best. You shouldn’t have to worry about side effects if you’re working closely with your physician on the treatment. But in some cases, GERD patients taking H2 blockers experience depression and hallucinations.
• Proton Pump Inhibitors - Esomeprazole, lansoprazole, omeprazole, pantoprazole and rabeprazole are examples of proton pump inhibitors that help GERD patients block acid secretion from the stomach. Adults and children may take these drugs, but a physician’s advice is recommended. Side effects include diarrhea, gas pains, and headaches.
• Coating Drugs – These medications help coat the gastric lining or the walls of the stomach and esophagus from the ill effects of acid. A common example of a coating drug is sucralfate (carafate), which can be taken 4 times a day at least 1 hour before meals. Patients with kidney failure issues should take extra precaution in taking this medication, as it may just do more harm.
• Promotility Drugs – If the reflux experienced is due to diabetes or delays in stomach emptying, metoclopramide may be used to increase the lower esophageal sphincter tone. Take this medication at least 30 minutes before meals and at bedtime. Some patients experience irregular heartbeats and drowsiness, so if you experience any of these symptoms, immediately report to your doctor.

While it is good to know there are instant medications for GERD, patients must realize that the best treatment for this condition is a lifestyle change. With proper diet and exercise, you can be free from the harsh effects of GERD and many other medical conditions.