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Gastroesophageal reflux disease

Information, Symptoms, Treatments and Resources

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16 Tips to Tame Heartburn

Try an OTC Remedy

Try an OTC Remedy

If you've tried these approaches and had no success, talk to your provider about an over-the-counter (OTC) remedy (especially if you’re pregnant, as some OTC medicines aren’t safe in pregnancy). Antacids neutralize stomach acid. They often act immediately, but should only be used for occasional heartburn. Stomach acid blockers, such as Pepcid and Zantac, work by blocking the H2 receptor, which signals the stomach to make more acid. They can prevent acid reflux when taken about 30 minutes before meals. If these aren't enough, consider using a proton pump inhibitor, such as Prilosec, which may be effective at relieving heartburn when other treatments haven't worked.

Attribution: Digital Vision./Photodisc/Thinkstock
By Katherine Solem. Katherine is a health writer and editor living in San Francisco. Published September 9, 2010. Updated August 5, 2015.
Reviewed by Shira Goldenholz, MD, MPH on August 3, 2015.
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