By providing your email address, you agree to receive emails containing coupons, refill reminders and promotional messages from GoodRx. Containing acid-reducing calcium carbonate and gas-busting simethicone, the antacid works well for kids with occasional indigestion (like ones who overdo it on the ice cream cake) as well as for kids who have more frequent stomach aches. It is really the patient's preference, he adds. Sometimes people with this problem can taste food or acidic fluid in the back of the mouth. Some H2 blockers can also treat GERD and certain types of ulcers in the stomach and intestines. If you need an H2 blocker for longer than 2 weeks or your heartburn lasts for over 3 months, talk to your healthcare provider. Some doses are only available by prescription. Throughout our research, we compared the antacid's benefits to its symptom relief and price tag. If your symptoms are mild and intermittent, opt for an over-the-counter that neutralizes the acid with with bismuth subsalicylate, calcium carbonate, or magnesium hydroxide. Its important to mention that a direct link between PPIs and many of these severe side effects has not been fully established. Talk to your healthcare provider if you think you need a PPI. 2022 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Rolaids Extra Strength Antacid Chewable Tablets incorporate two key ingredientsmagnesium and calcium carbonateto give you fast relief from heartburn, nausea, and other acid-reflux-related symptoms that can happen throughout the day. These medications tackle symptoms of acid reflux and GERD in different ways. If you take a medication that interacts with cimetidine, your healthcare provider will probably recommend another H2 blocker. H2 blockers start to work in minutes and prevent cells in the stomach from producing high levels of stomach acid. Sometimes, you can stop heartburn before it even starts. Antacids arent safe for everyone to take, says Dr. Ghouri, and there may be side effects. According to Matt Tompson, MD, a gastroenterologist with Houston Methodist, these are better for people with chronic acid reflux or chronic dyspepsia. There are three main types of heartburn medications that you can get without a prescription2: Starts to neutralize acid on contact Starts to relieve heartburn in 15-30 minutes. MANAGING HEARTBURN CAN BE A DAILY STRUGGLE FOR MANY PATIENTS, EVEN IF THEY HAVE BEEN PLACED ON A REGIMEN THAT USES ACID SUPPRESSING PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS LIKE PROTON PUMP INHIBITORS OR H2 BLOCKERS. Bismuth subsalicylate and calcium carbonate can cause constipation, while proton pump inhibitors carry a risk of bone fractures, vitamin deficiencies, and kidney disease, though this isnt typical with short-term use. International Immunopharmacology. The following H2 blockers are available OTC: Nizatidine is an H2 blocker thats available by prescription. Most people take antacids when they expect to have symptoms, so its a good idea to learn what triggers your symptoms. You can unsubscribe at any time. For heartburn, OTC omeprazole 20 mg, lansoprazole 15 mg, and esomeprazole 20 mg are typically taken once daily for 14 days. J Clin Pharm Ther. Talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider if you think you have acid reflux or GERD and need something to treat your symptoms. It can take 1 to 4 days to feel the full effects but some people get complete symptom relief within 24 hours. They can help you decide which product is best for you. Almost everyone gets heartburn from time to time. In: Moore PH, Ming R, eds. A systematic review and metaanalysis of clinical trials. Antacids can treat symptoms, but they dont prevent GERD. If your heartburn symptoms persist even after taking these drugs, then talk to a health care professional. These medications work in different ways to affect your stomach acid. Abbas MK, Zaidi ARZ, Robert CA, Thiha S, Malik BH. Dai J, Gu L, Su Y, et al. When there is an overproduction of the acid, it can lead to stomach discomfort.. Each medication has its own recommended dosage, so patients should read the label and/or consult with the pharmacist to confirm the appropriate dosing regimen, Dr. Birnstein says. As far as antacids that are neutralizers, then those are best taken when you have symptoms, Dr. Tompson said. H2 blockers and PPIs are also available by prescription. You can continue to use the TUMS as needed until the symptoms cease. This feeling occurs because the stomachs digestive juices contain acid. Treats multiple symptoms, including diarrhea. With GoodRx coupons, the lowest prices for 30-day supplies of generic H2 blockers are: If your acid reflux symptoms arent improving after trying antacids and H2 blockers, your healthcare provider may recommend a PPI. The different brands of antacids have different instructions on how to take them, so make sure you always read the label of your specific product. You can take two tablespoons of the liquid every 30 to 60 minutes, as needed, for up to eight doses in 24 hours. Enter your email to sign up. This is because it halts the production of acid before you consume something that could trigger the reaction. Medications, diet alterations, and lifestyle changes can all help. Its smart to have a reliable over-the-counter antacid on hand that can provide quick relief. Get fast heartburn relief with dual-action antacid & acid reducer PEPCID COMPLETE. Typically, they start to work within one to three hours and provide acid-suppression for several hours. Dr. Ghouri recommends that people with mild, intermittent heartburn turn to this recognizable option, which treats nausea and diarrhea symptoms, too. Rahnama P, Montazeri A, Huseini HF, Kianbakht S, Naseri M. Effect of Zingiber officinale R. rhizomes (Ginger) on pain relief in primary dysmenorrhea: a placebo randomized trial. If you have serious or more frequent symptoms, you may need a higher dose of an H2 blocker or a PPI. Magnesium is an ingredient found in many different acid reflux medications. 2021;21(1):112. doi:10.1186/s12876-021-01687-8, Teng M, Khoo AL, Zhao YJ, et al. All rights reserved. Once its ingested, it coats your stomach and reduces inflammation, which can also deter your stomach from overproducing acid. Some babies are born into this world with extra-sensitive stomachs, and as a parent, you need to know what treatments, remedies, and medications are safe for your little ones tummy troubles. The authors found that higher doses led to better control of GERD. Active Ingredients: Calcium carbonate 750 mg | Dosage: 2 to 4 tablets as needed, not exceeding 6 tablets in 24 hours | Uses: Heartburn and acid indigestion, Generally, patients [can] start by taking something like TUMS or Pepto Bismol since they are more readily available and dont have too many side effects. Bryan Curtin, MD, Director of The Center for Neurogastroenterology and GI Motility at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore. The 7 Best Antacids, According to Gastroenterologists. Certain doses of famotidine and cimetidine are also available by prescription. Nexium 24HR Acid Reducer Heartburn Relief Capsules, Best for Kids: She graduated from the University of Missouri at Columbia. Additionally, you should speak to a doctor before giving Pepto Bismol to a child or teenager also exhibiting flu-like or chicken pox symptoms. Below are common side effects by medication: Cimetidine: headache, diarrhea, and breast growth in men (gynecomastia), Famotidine: constipation, headache, diarrhea, and dizziness, Nizatidine: headache, dizziness, diarrhea, pain, and common cold symptoms. Some antacids may contain magnesium which will have a laxative effect at certain dosages, Dr. Birnstein says. Heartburn symptoms are common but can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. We then spent hours combing the web for the best and most effective products. doi:10.7759/cureus.5563, Voropaiev M, Nock D. Onset of acid-neutralizing action of a calcium/magnesium carbonate-based antacid using an artificial stomach model: an in vitro evaluation. When selecting antacids to treat symptoms like acid reflux and heartburn, we spoke with gastroenterologists about their recommendations. You can also use several strategies to help prevent heartburn from happening in the first place. The information you submit will be governed by Care Clubs, Compare H2 Blockers vs. Antacids vs. PPIs, Compare PEPCID To Other OTC Heartburn Medicines, three main types of heartburn medications, PEPCID COMPLETE Chewable Tablet with Famotidine & Antacids, Original Strength PEPCID AC Tablets with Famotidine, Maximum Strength PEPCID AC Tablets with Famotidine, PEPCID COMPLETE ON-THE-GO Chewable Tablet with Famotidine & Antacids. TUMS Chewy Bites Antacid Tablets, Best Chewable Antacid: GERD often requires lifestyle and diet changes to experience long-term relief. Just take one tablet with water 10 to 60 minutes before eating. Verywell Health content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Antacids relieve heartburn (indigestion). If you are having difficulty accessing this website, please call or email us at (855) 268-2822 or [emailprotected] so that we can provide you with the services you require through alternative means. Read our, TUMS Chewy Bites Antacid Tablets at Amazon, Rolaids Extra Strength Antacid Chewable Tablets at Amazon, Nexium 24HR Acid Reducer Heartburn Relief Capsules at Amazon, Mylicon Children's Tummy Relief at Amazon, Matys All Natural Acid & Indigestion Relief at Amazon, Best Overall: Written by Ross Phan, PharmD, BCACP, BCGP, BCPS, Written by Jennifer Arnouville, DO, FAAFP. But if your symptoms are frequent and bothersome, you may need something stronger, such as an H2 blocker or a PPI. Dosage recommendations for both preventing and treating heartburn are below: If you have heartburn frequently (2 or more times per week), you may have GERD. Sarah is a freelance writer with a focus on health and wellness. Common OTC antacids include: H2 blockers relieve and prevent heartburn and work by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach. One other reason you might want to give the natural route a try? Ginger and turmeric ancient spices and modern medicines. Common types of medications to treat heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) are antacids, histamine-2 antagonists (H2 blockers), and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). For example, too much of a magnesium-containing antacid may cause diarrhea.. Pepto Bismol Original Liquid, Best Proton Pump Inhibitor: The website and its content are intended for USA audiences only. PEPCID COMPLETE contains both an antacid (calcium carbonate) and an H2 blocker (famotidine). Heartburn is an uncomfortable burning sensation in your chest. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is caused by stomach acid rising all the way up into your esophagus, throat, and mouth, and can cause a painful burning sensation, belching, and difficulty swallowing. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you're on a federal government site. Hes found that some patients can also experience relief from constipation they are experiencing after taking these medications, but that relief should not sway patients towards taking antacids. Younger kids can take one tablet three times per day, and older kids can take two tablets up to six times per day. Nexium 24HR Acid Reliever works by blocking acid production to protect the body from symptoms like heartburn. Throughout her career, Danielle has interviewed a variety of experts in the medical and health fields while reviewing dozens of products. If your symptoms have not improved after 2 weeks of taking an antacid, you may need a stronger medication. GAVISCONIS A TRADEMARK OWNED BY OR LICENSED TO THE GSK GROUP OF COMPANIES. Learn more about The site is published by McNeil Consumer Pharmaceuticals Co., which is solely responsible for its content. This lowers the amount of acid thats made in the stomach. If patients consume more than the recommended amount, they may encounter side effects related to the main active ingredient in the medications, Dr. Birnstein. Active Ingredients: Calcium carbonate 675 mg, Magnesium hydroxide 135 mg | Dosage: 2 to 4 tablets as needed, not exceeding 10 tablets in 24 hours | Uses: Heartburn and acid indigestion, May not be safe for people with existing conditions. But these side effects have been seen in people who took PPIs on a long-term basis, which is worth considering when starting these medications. These may include: Low levels of magnesium, which can lead to convulsions, fatigue, and muscle weakness, Bacterial infections (like Clostridium difficile). We've updated our Privacy Policy, which will go in to effect on September 1, 2022. taking Pepto Bismol consistently can cause constipation, they can ease feelings of discomfort and nausea, The safety of long-term daily usage of a proton pump inhibitor: a literature review. The best part is that Nexium boasts long-lasting relief beyond other OTC medications on the market. McNeil Consumer Pharmaceuticals Co. 1998 - 2021. The researchers found that differences between products was likely due to variation in doses, not the PPIs themselves. Side effects of PPIs are usually mild and may include: When PPIs are used for a long time, serious side effects are possible. In general, it is recommended to speak to a physician before initiating therapy with antacids, especially for the long term., Overall, antacids tend to be safe for most patients. An official website of the United States government, : Learn about heartburn: what causes it, how you can help prevent it, and how Gaviscon antacids can help provide relief. As a seasoned health writer, Danielle Zoellner knows the importance of finding just the right product to fit your medical needs. Talk to your doctor if you think your antacid is making it more difficult for you to have regular bowel movements. +Amongst national brands; *when used as directed. If you feel squeamish about the thought of adding more medications to your daily routine to treat your heartburn and indigestion symptoms, a drug-free, all-natural alternative like Matys could be a good option for you. Michael Menna, DO, is a board-certified, active attending emergency medicine physician at White Plains Hospital in White Plains, New York. Overall, the choice of which PPI to use depends on several factors, including what other medications you take. Famotidine (Pepcid) regular strength 10 mg, Famotidine (Pepcid AC) maximum strength 20 mg, Famotidine (Zantac 360) regular strength 10 mg, Famotidine (Zantac 360) regular strength 20 mg, 1 tablet up to 30 minutes before eating or drinking something that causes heartburn, 1 tablet 15-60 minutes before eating or drinking something that causes heartburn, 1 tablet 10-60 minutes before eating or drinking something that causes heartburn, 800 mg twice daily or 400 mg 4 times a day, 300, 400, and 800 mg tablets and oral solution, 20 mg and 40 mg tablets and oral suspension, 150 mg and 300 mg capsules, and oral solution. This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Inhibition of curcumin on influenza A virus infection and influenzal pneumonia via oxidative stress, TLR2/4, p38/JNK MAPK and NF-B pathways. PEPCID products start working in minutes and can ease symptoms day or night. If your symptoms are mild but persistent, choose an H2-receptor antagonist like famotidine. Youre trying to relieve GI issues, not create new onesbut taking certain antacids can lead to constipation, especially if youre taking them around the clock or using more than the recommended amount. OTC cimetidine and famotidine products can treat or prevent heartburn. But another meta-analysis, from 2017, comparing the different PPIs did find a difference between products. However, people can experience some side effects if they take more than what the dosage advises. Sarah Bradley has been writing health content since 2017everything from product roundups and illness FAQs to nutrition explainers and the dish on diet trends. If you have kidney problems, the dose of famotidine and nizatidine may need to be lowered. Common OTC H2-blockers include: OTC PPIs treat frequent heartburn (occurs 2 or more days a week) and are not intended for immediate relief of heartburn, as they may take one to four days for full effect. Over 60 million Americans experience heartburn at least once a month. Below, well discuss how the medications work and how much they cost, to help you choose the best option for you. You are now leaving Gaviscon.com and moving to an external website independently operated and not managed by GSK. 2018;54:177-187. The stomach normally produces hydrochloric acid to help digest food and kill bacteria or other organisms that may have been ingested along with the food, Dr. Ghouri explains. Its been around forever, and thats because it works. The tablets are free of gluten, saccharin, alcohol, and artificial flavors. This H2 blocker prevents heartburn associated with acid indigestion and sour stomach brought on by eating or drinking certain foods or beverages. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. But, if these symptoms persist, then it is recommended to consult with a doctor about your options. All three groups of medications are available over-the-counter (OTC). Rolaids Extra Strength Antacid Chewable Tablets, The 8 Best Gas Medicines for Quick, Reliable Relief, Best for GERD: More serious side effects from H2 blockers can occur in people who have kidney or liver issues and those over 50 years old. These over-the counter (OTC) medications are often the first medications people try in order to relieve heartburn. PPIs work by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach. Together, they can ease feelings of discomfort and nausea. As a general rule, take other medications either 1 hour before or 4 hours after you take antacids. Now, youll enjoy a streamlined experience created specifically for healthcare providers. Click here to find home remedies to help find symptom relief. Can take up to 1-4 days for full effect. Timing for these medications will often depend on which type of antacid you are taking. There arent any large clinical trials that compare individual H2 blockers. They work by blocking chemical receptors in the stomach called histamine-2 receptors. When combined active ingredients like like calcium carbonate, this combination helps neutralize the stomach acid in both the stomach and esophagus. Ashleigh is the editorial director for commerce at Verywell where she oversees health, fitness, family, and mind content. Meta-analysis of the effectiveness of esomeprazole in gastroesophageal reflux disease and Helicobacter pylori infection. While there isnt a ton of evidence confirming the benefits of these ingredients, many researchers have suggested that these ingredients can relieve pain, reduce inflammation, boost your immune system, and improve circulation (in addition to potentially reliving your heartburn and indigestion). Talk to your healthcare provider if you need an antacid frequently for more than two weeks. Also called acid indigestion, heartburn is an uncomfortable, burning feeling in the mid-chest, behind the breastbone, or in the upper part of the abdomenthe area between the chest and the hips. Onset of acid-neutralizing action of a calcium/magnesium carbonate-based antacid using an artificial stomach model: an in vitro evaluation. Apple Cider Vinegar for GERD: Does It Work & Is It Safe? Note that taking Pepto Bismol consistently can cause constipation. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2012;12(1):92. Not only will they provide you quick relief to whatever symptoms you might be feeling, but the tablets also taste good. These medical reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. If you take other medications contraindicated for use with many common OTC antacids or have experienced constipation with many other treatments, a drug-free option can help you avoid interactions and side effects. When buying an antacid, look for active ingredients that reduce stomach acid, such as calcium carbonate. For fast relief- Antacids start to work in seconds to neutralize stomach acid, making your stomach contents less acidic and reducing the chances that acidic liquid will leak into your esophagus (the muscular tube that connects your mouth and stomach). Brands that use magnesium can cause diarrhea. Active Ingredients: Calcium carbonate 400 mg, Simethicone 40 mg | Dosage: 1 tablet every 8 hours for kids aged 2-5, 2 tablets every 4 hours for kids aged 6-11 | Uses: Bloating, gas, and indigestion in kids, May not be effective as traditional products, Some users reported worsening of reflux symptoms. Her experience and knowledge in the field work together to help readers like yourself find the best products for your daily life. If youre used accustomed to taking an antacid when symptoms strike, youll want to note the different dosage instructions for Prilosec since they are best for people with chronic symptoms. Sign up for PEPCID emails today! You may have heard of calcium carbonate (Tums) and calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide (Rolaids). Additional reporting by Danielle Zoellner. Genomics of Tropical Crop Plants. Many antacid brands contain calcium. Let your healthcare provider know if you have any kidney or liver issues before starting an H2 blocker. Too much calcium can lead to kidney stones. Information for Consumers and Patients | Drugs, Recalls, Market Withdrawals and Safety Alerts, Information for Consumers and Patients | Drugs, Educational Resources | Free Drug-Related Publications, Encuentre informacin sobre un medicamento, Frequently Asked Questions on Popular Topics, Over-The-Counter (OTC) Heartburn Treatment, Warning: Aspirin-Containing Antacid Medicines Can Cause Bleeding, Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI): Class Labeling Change, FDADrug Safety Communication: Clostridium Difficile-Associated Diarrhea (CDAD) Can be Associated With Stomach Acid Drugs, FDA Drug Safety Communication: Possible increased risk of fracture of the hip, wrist, and spine with the use of proton pump inhibitors, Rulemaking History for OTC Antacid Drug Products, Code of Federal Regulations on Antacid Products for OTC Human Use, Pepcid Complete or Pepcid AC (famotidine), Zegerid OTC (omeprazole and sodium bicarbonate). Antacids can change how other medications are absorbed by the body in many cases. Meta-analysis of the effectiveness of esomeprazole in gastroesophageal reflux disease and Helicobacter pylori infection, Effect of Zingiber officinale R. rhizomes (Ginger) on pain relief in primary dysmenorrhea: a placebo randomized trial, Ginger and turmeric ancient spices and modern medicines, Inhibition of curcumin on influenza A virus infection and influenzal pneumonia via oxidative stress, Does ginger supplementation lower blood pressure? These medications can decrease the amount of stomach acid you produce, says University of Missouri Health Care gastroenterologist Yezaz Ghouri, MD. Antacids are cheap and available OTC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. But proton pump inhibitors tend to work best for people when they are consumed in the morning before eating. These side effects are most common with cimetidine, though they can happen with any H2 blocker. Gaviscon Extra Strength antacid tablets are available in Original and Cherry flavors. The different forms contain some combination of calcium, magnesium, and aluminum. One chewable tablet works fast and lasts all day*, Works before, during, or after the start of heartburn, Maximum heartburn relief for your tough heartburn, even at night. Talk to your healthcare provider to discuss whether a preventative medication is needed. When that burning feeling strikes, there are different treatments you can reach for to ease the discomfort. Questions or comments? Side effects from H2 blockers are usually rare. She has written for publications like Women's Health, Healthline, and Parents. THIS SITE IS INTENDED FOR US RESIDENTS ONLY. Generally, generics tend to be cheaper than brand-name products. But OTC medication, specifically a proton pump inhibitor, can be a good option for people to find some relief from the symptoms as well. Is There Anything I Can Do About Acid Reflux During Chemotherapy? Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Talk to your healthcare provider to see if you need a prescription for a higher dose. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. It also happens to be Dr. Ghouris personal favorite. Without this research, we cant say that one H2 blocker is better than another for treating heartburn or GERD. Call 1-800-755-4008 (English) or 1-888-466-8746 (Spanish) or click here for Customer Service. A systematic review and metaanalysis of clinical trials. With GoodRx coupons, the lowest prices for 30-day supplies of generic PPIs are: Three main groups of medications treat symptoms of acid reflux, like heartburn, and GERD: antacids, H2 blockers, and PPIs. Springer New York; 2008:299-311. H2 blockers are available in generic and brand-name versions. While some acid is necessary for digestion, too much can lead to problems like heartburn1. TERMS OF USE|COOKIE PLOICY|PRIVACY NOTICE|CONTACT US|SITE MAP. They can be used by kids between the ages of two and 11. If patients are having moderate to severe abdominal pain, they should consult with a healthcare provider, says Elliot Birnstein, MD, a gastroenterologist at UCLA Health Downtown LA. Phytotherapy Research. The proton inhibitors tend to work more efficiently if they are taking them about 30 minutes before breakfast, Dr. Tompson says. Try PEPCID the #1 doctor recommended acid reducer brand. Proton pump inhibitors dont specifically target gas and bloating, but antacids containing simethicone, bismuth subsalicylate, or magnesium can relieve gas symptoms in addition to reflux and indigestion. Prilosec OTC Delayed Release Acid Reducer, Best Flavored Antacid: GoodRx provides no warranty for any information. Those are great choices for people who have the occasional heartburn or upset stomach after spicy food or something and they just need a quick reliever, Dr. Tompson says. Here are the best antacids on the market. Omeprazole was one of the first antacids in the class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors, and while some of the newer ones like esomeprazole and dexlansoprazole are considered to be more potent, omeprazole is usually sufficient in controlling symptoms in a majority of cases, Dr. Ghouri says. Your provider may recommend a PPI, which well cover next. Its important not to overuse these antacids since too much calcium can build up in the kidneys and cause problems. But, it is important to remember that while Nexium can help relieve symptoms for those who suffer from GERD, it is also imperative to implement diet and lifestyle changes to manage the disease in the long term. If patients symptoms do not improve within 2-3 days, they should consult with a healthcare provider.. If they do occur, theyre usually mild. Brands that use calcium or aluminum can cause constipation. She is also a certified barre instructor teaching at a boutique studio. We researched dozens of antacids and evaluated them for active ingredients, price, dosing schedule, flavor, and symptoms treated. Common PPI dosages for treating GERD are below: In 2003, a meta-analysis (a review of many studies) compared the different PPIs to one another for a short period of time. Other common acid suppressors are H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitorsboth of which work to reduce or prevent the stomach from producing as much acid, often with the active ingredient omperazole. Please seek medical advice before starting, changing or terminating any medical treatment. Taking those medications as needed works well to relieve symptoms when they start. Antacids and H2 blockers help treat infrequent heartburn. Antacids help relieve symptoms of acid reflux, like heartburn, by neutralizing the acid in your stomach. Prilosec (or omeprazole), is an easy-to-find proton pump inhibitor category, which means it reduces the amount of food-digesting acid produced by the cells in your stomach lining. A bonus of this medication is that it comes in a soothing mint flavor. Because acid reducers may interact with certain other medicines, ask your doctor or pharmacist before use if you are taking a prescription drug. Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Take one pill a day for 14 days, every four months (or up to three times per year). With tummy-friendly ingredients known to reduce stomach acid, relieve constipation, and reduce bloating, this supplement might help you prevent some of your most frequent symptomsall while letting you reap the benefits of a few superfoods, like turmeric, ginger, and apple cider vinegar. Because acid reducers may interact with certain other medicines, ask your doctor or pharmacist before use if you are taking a prescription drug. Heartburn occurs when stomach contents flow back up into the esophagusthe muscular tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. For example, if spicy foods give you heartburn, you can take an antacid before you eat something spicy. They should be taken before eating or drinking anything that can cause heartburn. If you only have heartburn when you eat certain foods, a short-acting antacid should work finebut if your indigestion is chronic, youll want a longer-lasting formula. Some things youll want to remember include: Take antacids separately from your other medications. But they also offer a childrens antacid, so theres a way to help older kids, too.