Best Rated Over The Counter Acid Reflux Medicine
Acid reflux is a common condition that affects millions of people in the United States. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and throat. While there are prescription medications available to treat acid reflux, many people prefer to use over-the-counter (OTC) remedies. In this article, we will discuss the best rated over the counter acid reflux medicine.
What Causes Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscle relaxes and allows stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. The LES muscle is located at the bottom of the esophagus and is responsible for opening to allow food to enter the stomach and closing to prevent stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus. When the LES muscle is weak or relaxes too often, it can cause acid reflux.
Some common causes of acid reflux include:
- Eating large meals or lying down right after a meal
- Being overweight or obese
- Snacking close to bedtime
- Drinking certain beverages, such as alcohol, carbonated drinks, coffee, or tea
- Smoking
- Pregnancy
- Hiatal hernia
If you experience acid reflux frequently, it is important to talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.
Best Rated Over The Counter Acid Reflux Medicine
There are several OTC medications available to treat acid reflux. The following are the best rated over the counter acid reflux medicine:
1. Antacids
Antacids are a type of medication that neutralize stomach acid. They provide quick relief from acid reflux symptoms, such as heartburn, by reducing the amount of acid in the stomach. Antacids are available in tablet, liquid, or chewable form and can be taken as needed. Some common antacids include Tums, Rolaids, and Mylanta.
2. H2 Blockers
H2 blockers are a type of medication that reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach. They provide longer-lasting relief from acid reflux symptoms than antacids and can be taken once or twice a day. Some common H2 blockers include Pepcid, Zantac, and Tagamet.
3. Proton Pump Inhibitors
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are a type of medication that reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach. They are the most effective OTC medication for treating acid reflux and provide long-lasting relief from symptoms. PPIs are taken once a day and should not be used for more than 14 days without consulting a doctor. Some common PPIs include Prilosec, Nexium, and Prevacid.
Conclusion
Acid reflux is a common condition that can be treated with over the counter medications. Antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors are the best rated over the counter acid reflux medicine. If you experience acid reflux frequently, it is important to talk to your doctor to rule out any underlying conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms.