When stomach acid regurgitates into the esophagus, it triggers acid reflux, resulting in a burning sensation in the chest and throat. Failure to address acid reflux in adults can escalate into more severe gastrointestinal conditions like Barrett’s esophagus and esophagitis. Hence, prompt treatment upon onset is crucial. Fortunately, numerous effective treatment modalities exist to alleviate symptoms. Below are some effective methods to alleviate acid reflux in adults.

Nonprescription Medications

Numerous nonprescription medications are readily available over the counter to aid in neutralizing, reducing, and blocking acid production. Here’s a selection you can obtain from your local pharmacy:

Antacids for Neutralizing Stomach Acid:

Antacids function by neutralizing the hydrochloric acid present in the stomach, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with acid reflux in adults and related conditions like stomach ulcers and inflammation of the stomach lining. They come in various formulations, including tablets, liquids, and chewable tablets. Common examples include Tums, Rolaids, and Pepto-Bismol. It's important to note that while antacids provide rapid relief from acid reflux symptoms, they do not address the root cause of the condition.

Medications for Reducing Acid Production:

Certain medications aid in enhancing muscle contractions in the lower esophagus, facilitating faster stomach emptying and consequent reduction of acid reflux symptoms. Examples of such medications include esomeprazole (Nexium), omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid, among others), and pantoprazole (Protonix).

Medications for Blocking Acid Production and Healing the Esophagus:

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are medications designed to block acid production and promote healing of the esophagus, thereby mitigating the burning sensation experienced in the chest. Examples of these medications include omeprazole (Prilosec OTC), lansoprazole (Prevacid 24 HR), and esomeprazole (Nexium 24 HR).

Prescription Medications

If you prefer prescribed medication over non-prescription options, consulting your doctor is advisable. Bowie Health’s Gastroenterologists are the best in Maryland and can help prescribe medication to sooth your acid refulx. In such cases, two types of medications may be recommended:

Prescription-Strength Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs):

PPIs belong to a class of medications that diminish the stomach's acid production, thereby aiding in the treatment of acid reflux. These stronger formulations are available exclusively by prescription and typically exhibit higher potency compared to over-the-counter variants. Examples of prescription-strength PPIs include omeprazole, rabeprazole, lansoprazole, pantoprazole, dexlansoprazole, and esomeprazole. Additionally, they are utilized to manage conditions like peptic ulcers and erosive esophagitis. While generally safe when used as directed, prolonged usage may entail certain risks such as headaches, nausea, and diarrhea.

Prescription-Strength H-2 Blockers:

H-2 blockers, also known as histamine H2-receptor antagonists, function by inhibiting histamine action in the stomach, thereby reducing acid production. Your physician may recommend prescription-strength H-2 blockers like cimetidine, nizatidine, ranitidine, and famotidine. Similar to PPIs, these medications are employed in the treatment of peptic ulcers, erosive esophagitis, stress ulcers prevention, and Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.

While acid reflux in adults can be controlled by medication, sometimes, medication might not help. Or you might also not be ready to take medication for the long-term, and so you decide to take the other route; doing surgery. It is important that you speak with your medical provider about your options of treating acid reflux. Bowie Health Internal Medicine has the best gastroenternolgists in Maryland that can help you find a solution to your acid reflux problems. 

Best Gastroenterologist in Maryland

Bowie Internal Medicine is committed to treating any conditions you may have, as well as preventing further health complications through preventative care. For more information, please contact our office to schedule an appointment or ask any questions.