Path to better health
To find out which medication is right for you, talk to your primary care doctor. They can tell you about the benefits and risks. Antacids and acid reducers rarely cause side effects. If so, the side effects are usually minor and go away on their own. These may include headaches, nausea, constipation, or diarrhea.
Talk to your doctor before taking antacids if you have kidney disease. You should avoid any antacids that contain calcium carbonate or aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate unless your doctor recommends it.
Talk to your doctor before taking a proton pump inhibitor if:
- You are an elderly person or have immune system problems. PPIs may increase your risk of pneumonia.
- You are a postmenopausal woman. PPIs reduce calcium absorption and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
- You have been treated for a Clostridium difficile (C. difficile) infection in the past. PPIs can increase the risk of the infection coming back.
If you are over 55 and need long-term PPI treatment, your doctor may refer you for EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy). This procedure examines the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine. If you have significant reflux, your doctor may also test you for bacteria called H. pylori before trying PPIs.
Things to consider
Do not use more than 1 antacid or acid reducer at a time unless your doctor says it is okay. Store all medications up high, out of the reach and sight of small children. Keep medications in a cool, dry place. This helps prevent them from losing effectiveness before they expire. Do not store medications in bathrooms, which are often hot and humid.
When to see the doctor
Tell your doctor how over-the-counter medications work for you. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, your doctor may suggest a prescription medication. If possible, try not to take PPIs long term. These can increase your risk of certain health conditions, such as osteoporosis, kidney disease, and dementia.
Tell your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms. They may be signs of a more serious problem.
- Bloody or black stools
- Vomiting with blood
- Heartburn that has not improved after 2 weeks of treatment with over-the-counter medications
- Problems swallowing or pain when swallowing.
- Unplanned weight loss
If you have chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and pain in your arms, you may be having a heart attack. Call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately.
Questions to ask your doctor
- What type of over-the-counter medication is best for me to relieve heartburn and acid reflux?
- How much medication can I take and how often?
- What are the side effects and risks of these over-the-counter medications?
- Are there any health conditions that prevent me from taking over-the-counter medications?
