Here are the basics about each of the medicines below. Only common problems with them are listed.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)
- Omeprazole
- Lansoprazole
- Pantoprazole
- Rabeprazole
- Esomeprazole
- Dexlansoprazole
- Cimetidine
- Famotidine
- Nizatidine
- Alka Seltzer
- Maalox
- Pepto Bismol
- Tums
- Rolaids
- Mylanta
- Bethanechol
- Metoclopramide
Common names are:
- Omeprazole
- Lansoprazole
- Pantoprazole
- Rabeprazole
- Esomeprazole
- Dexlansoprazole
PPIs block the stomach from making acid. They also heal the esophageal lining and protect it from stomach acid.
Problems may be:
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Belly pain
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Bone fractures (older adults)
Common names are:
- Cimetidine
- Famotidine
- Nizatidine
- Ranitidine
H2 blockers lower the amount of acid released by the stomach. They also heal the esophageal lining and protect it from stomach acid.
Problems may be:
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
Common brand names:
- Alka Seltzer
- Maalox
- Pepto Bismol
- Tums
- Rolaids
- Mylanta
These will lower the amount of acid in the stomach. They work quickly to ease heartburn.
Problems may be:
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- High blood levels of calcium —in those that have calcium in them
- Kidney stones
References
Acid reflux (GER and GERD) in adults. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/acid-reflux-ger-gerd-adults. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). American Gastroenterological Association website. Available at: https://aga-cms-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/2018214195040---All%5FGERD%5F2017.pdf. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Merck Manual Professional Version. Available at: https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/gastrointestinal-disorders/esophageal-and-swallowing-disorders/gastroesophageal-reflux-disease-gerd. Accessed March 18, 2022.
Revision Information
- Reviewer: EBSCO Medical Review Board Daniel A. Ostrovsky, MD
- Review Date: 11/2021
- Update Date: 03/21/2022