A number of drugs are registered for
the treatment of acid reflux disease or
GERD, and they
are among the
most-often-prescribed forms of
medication in most Western
countries. They can be used in
combination with other drugs,
although some antacids can impede
the function of other
medications.
Acid reflux medication
- Antacids before meals or
symptomatically after acid reflux
symptoms begin can reduce gastric
acidity (increase the pH). Alginic
acid may coat the mucosa as well as
increase the pH and decrease
reflux.
- Gastric H2 receptor blockers
such as ranitidine or famotidine
can reduce gastric secretion of
acid. These drugs are technically
antihistamines. They relieve
complaints in about 50% of all GERD
patients.
- Proton pump inhibitors such as
omeprazole are the most effective
in reducing gastric acid secretion,
as they stop the secretion of acid
at the source of acid production,
i.e. the proton pump. To maximize
effectiveness of this medication
the drug should be taken a half
hour before meals.
- Prokinetics strengthen the LES
and speed up gastric emptying.
Cisapride, a member of this class,
was withdrawn from the market for
causing Long QT syndrome.
