7 Best Medications for Heartburn and Acid Reflux in 2024 | Mira Health
7 Best Medications for Heartburn and Acid Reflux in 2024
The best medication for heartburn includes classes of heartburn medications: antacids, histamine-2 (H2) blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
Madeline Hlobik
Madeline is a Senior at UCLA majoring in Human Biology & Society with a minor in Spanish. She's currently a Healthcare Research Analyst at Mira, writing content for the blog to help the public better understand certain medical issues, technologies, testings, and the importance of healthcare.
Heartburn is a condition that 60 million Americans experience at least once per month. The main causes of heartburn include acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic form of acid reflux. The best medication for heartburn includes classes of heartburn medications: antacids, histamine-2 (H2) blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
To avoid these symptoms, you can take various kinds of medications—from over-the-counter (OTC) to prescription.
Best Over-The-Counter Heartburn Medications in 2024
There are three main classes of heartburn medications: antacids, histamine-2 (H2) blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). We have compiled a list of the best heartburn medications for different needs to analyze these components better. These seven best heartburn medications include:
- Famotidine (Pepcid)
- Omeprazole (Prilosec)
- Esomeprazole (Nexium)
- Mylicon
- Calcium carbonate (TUMS)
- Maalox
- Sodium Bicarbonate
Famotidine: Most Effective
If you’re in search of a strong relief from heartburn that is relatively cost-effective, Famotidine (commonly known as Pepcid) may be the right option for you. Pepcid is an H2 blocker that works by lowering the levels of acid produced in the stomach. On average, after taking Pepcid, individuals report noticing relief of heartburn within an hour, and typically, the effects of famotidine last for 10 to 12 hours after an initial dose. The most common side effects of famotidine include a headache or gastrointestinal pain (constipation, diarrhea, nausea, abdominal pain).
Omeprazole: Best For Stomach Acid Reduction
Omeprazole, commonly known as Prilosec, is a PPI that reduces the quantity of food-digesting acid made by the cells within the lining of your stomach. According to Dr. Ghouri, Prilosec OTC “is usually sufficient in controlling symptoms in a majority of [heartburn] cases” and has been the #1 Doctor Recommended frequent heartburn relief medicine for 14 years. Prilosec OTC prices tend to vary, from $18.44 on Amazon to $85.90 on Walmart. The common side effects produced are a headache and abdominal pain.
Esomeprazole: Best for GERD
Esomeprazole, commonly known as Nexium, is a PPI used to combat GERD and, therefore, heartburn by reducing the creation of acid in the stomach. The most common side effects of Nexium include abdominal pain and constipation.
Nexium vs. Prilosec
| Nexium | Prilosec | |
|---|---|---|
| Brand/generic status | Brand and generic | Brand and generic |
| What is the generic name? | Esomeprazole magnesium | Omeprazole magnesium |
| What form(s) does the drug come in? | Rx: delayed-release capsules, suspension, packets, injection OTC: capsules, mini capsules, tablets |
Rx: delayed-release capsules, suspension OTC: delayed-release tablets |
| What is the standard dosage? | Varies by indication: usually 20-40 mg once or twice daily (adult dose) | Varies by indication: usually, 20-40 mg once or twice daily (adult dose) |
| How long is the typical treatment? | 10 days to 6 months, many patients take for longer | 10 days to 8 weeks, many patients take longer |
| Who typically uses the medication? | Adults and children | Adults and children |
Mylicon: Best Heartburn Medication for Children
Unlike the other medications, Mylicon acts as an antacid for children ages 2-11. Mylicon has an active ingredient, Simethicone, that gently breaks up gas bubbles in the stomach. Mylicon starts working in just minutes following consumption. The only potential side effect of Mylicon is loose stools.
| Age (years) | Weight (lbs) | Dose (ml) |
|---|---|---|
| Infants under 2 | Under 24 | 0.3 |
| Children over 2 | Over 24 | 0.6 |
Calcium Carbonate: Best for Pregnancy
Calcium Carbonate (TUMS) is often recommended for pregnant individuals because it does not contain magnesium or high sodium levels. TUMS works by neutralizing the acid present within the stomach. The main side effects associated with TUMS are belching and gas.
Sodium Bicarbonate: Most Affordable
Sodium Bicarbonate is an OTC medication that assists with neutralizing the levels of acid in your stomach. The most common side effects of Sodium Bicarbonate include gas, bloating, cramps, and increased thirst.
4 Top Common Reasons for Heartburn in America
- Heartburn in America is most commonly caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), affecting around 20% of the population.
- Diet plays a crucial role, with typical American diets high in fats, chocolate, caffeine, and carbonated beverages contributing to the problem.
- Lifestyle choices like smoking and alcohol consumption are known to exacerbate heartburn by weakening the lower esophageal sphincter.
- Common medications, including NSAIDs and blood pressure drugs, can induce heartburn.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the long-term effects of heartburn?
Long-term acid reflux may lead to GERD and esophageal cancer.
What can trigger heartburn?
Certain foods and beverages can trigger heartburn, such as spicy foods, onions, citrus products, and chocolate.
Are there any alternatives to relieving heartburn besides medications?
You could make sure to stand up straight, wear loose clothing, chew gum, or try sipping apple cider vinegar.
Are there any long-term effects of heartburn medication?
Occasionally, long-term use of heartburn medication can be associated with a higher chance of dementia, chronic kidney disease, or heart attacks.
Bottom Line
Heartburn is a medical condition with unpleasant symptoms that many individuals have to battle at some point in their lives. Many heartburn medications are available, and each category has a plethora of heartburn medications.