There are different ways to treat chronic acid reflux, also known as GERD*
If your current treatment approach isn't relieving chronic heartburn due to GERD, it may be time to explore other options. A healthcare provider can help you take the next step to seek relief.
*Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.
GERD Treatment Options
Maybe there’s an option you haven’t considered.
The first treatments for acid reflux became available in the 1920s, but a lot has changed since then. Different medication types may offer relief for people who haven't found success with other treatments.
A licensed healthcare provider can help you with a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms, lifestyle and response to prior medications.
A licensed healthcare provider can help you with a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms, lifestyle and response to prior medications.
Available GERD Treatments Timeline
2020s
PCABs
(potassium-competitive acid blockers)
Blocks the final step of acid production without needing stomach acid for activation
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First available
1970s
How it works
Blocks the final step of acid production without needing stomach acid for activation
Dosing frequency
1 time daily
Timing restrictions
No meal or timing restrictions
Prescription or over the counter?
Prescription
Most common side effects
Stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, urinary tract infection
FDA approved?
Yes
Example of brand names
Ask your healthcare provider about available options
Blocks the final step of acid production without needing stomach acid for activation
Learn more
1980s
PPIs
(proton pump inhibitors)
Blocks the final step of acid production; requires stomach acid for activation
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First available
1980s
How it works
Blocks the final step of acid production; requires stomach acid for activation
Dosing frequency
1 time daily, before a meal
Timing restrictions
Most must be taken 30-60 minutes
before a meal
Prescription or over the counter?
Over the counter or prescription
Most common side effects
Stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, gas (flatulence), headache, vomiting
FDA approved?
Yes
Example of brand names
Nexium, Prilosec
Blocks the final step of acid production; most require stomach acid for activation
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1970s
H2RAs
(histamine-2 receptor antagonists)
Blocks one of the early steps in acid production
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First available
1970s
How it works
Blocks one of the early steps in acid production
Dosing frequency
1–2 times daily
Timing restrictions
Usually taken 30-60 minutes before a meal or when symptoms occur
Prescription or over the counter?
Over the counter or prescription
Most common side effects
Diarrhea, headache, dizziness and drowsiness
FDA approved?
Yes
Example of brand names
Pepcid AC, Zantac 360
Blocks one of the early steps in acid production
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1920s
Antacids
Blocks the final step of acid production; requires stomach acid for activation
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See less
First available
1920s
How it works
Neutralizes acid already in the stomach
Dosing frequency
2-4 times daily, as needed
Timing restrictions
When symptoms occur or are anticipated
Prescription or over the counter?
Over the counter
Most common side effects
Constipation or diarrhea, gas (flatulence), headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps
FDA approved?
Yes
Example of brand names
Tums, Rolaids, Maalox
Neutralizes acid already in the stomach
Learn more
What is GERD?
It’s more than “just heartburn.”
If you’re experiencing heartburn more than twice a week, it's likely you’re dealing with a chronic condition called GERD. Here’s the difference between some commonly-used terms:
Acid Reflux is likely the CAUSE of the problem
- Acid reflux occurs when the contents of the stomach go in the wrong direction, traveling up to the esophagus into your throat.
- The things you eat and drink may make this worse. Coffee, alcohol, citrus, fried foods, or rich desserts are common triggers for acid reflux.
Heartburn is the most common SYMPTOM
- Acid reflux causes heartburn.
- This can be a painful burning feeling behind your breastbone, in your neck, or in your throat.
- This pain may be worse after eating, when laying down to sleep, or when bending over.
GERD is the more serious CHRONIC CONDITION
- GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease.
- It is chronic acid reflux that causes frequent heartburn and can even lead to damage in the esophagus.
- Treating GERD may require prescription medications.
As research on GERD has advanced, so have the treatments. Learn more about your options and talk to a healthcare provider who can help you decide what’s right for you.
Talk to a Healthcare Provider Online Today
A licensed provider can help you better understand your treatment options. You can choose to consult your personal healthcare provider about options available to you or you can consult with an independent telehealth provider by clicking below.
Telehealth connects you with real healthcare providers online. They can help assess your symptoms and recommend next steps. In many cases, they can prescribe treatments and send them to your local pharmacy — or directly to your door.
Potential Benefits of Telehealth:
- Fast access to care
- Flexible appointment times
- No travel or sitting in waiting rooms
- Online visit fee is usually similar to a co-pay for an in-person visit with insurance
