Although heartburn symptoms vary from patient to patient, there are general treatment guidelines, based on frequency of heartburn, to direct individuals to the most appropriate and effective medication options.

Episodic—or Occasional—Heartburn

Infrequent bouts of heartburn are common. Often predictable, they’re usually manageable in the short term by avoiding certain foods and activities or by taking traditional over-the-counter (OTC) remedies. There are two types of treatment for episodic heartburn:

• Antacids neutralize existing stomach acid and provide relatively rapid but short-term relief of heartburn symptoms lasting one to two hours.
• H2 receptor antagonists, also known as H2 blockers, partially block production of acid in the stomach. The effect of H2 blockers generally lasts six to 12 hours.

Frequent Heartburn

Frequent heartburn sufferers include those whose heartburn does not respond to dietary and lifestyle changes alone or who take medication for heartburn symptoms two or more days a week.

Because some individuals engage in compensatory behaviors to offset heartburn discomfort—avoiding certain foods, beverages or physical activities; sleeping with the head of the bed elevated; avoiding close-fitting clothes and belts—they do not always feel discomfort and may not identify themselves as frequent sufferers.

Although frequent heartburn symptoms can be reduced with traditional OTC medications, the proton pump inhibitor (PPI) Prilosec OTC® is the leading OTC medication indicated specifically for frequent heartburn. PPIs, powerful inhibitors of stomach acid production, virtually shut down the acid pumps in the cells of the stomach, leaving just enough acid for normal digestion of food. Prilosec OTC provides 24-hour treatment of frequent heartburn with one daily pill when taken as directed for 14 days.

Severe or Persistent Heartburn

Those who suffer from severe or persistent heartburn despite treatment and changes in diet could be experiencing early warning signs of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). These individuals should receive prompt medical evaluation to confirm the presence or absence of GERD and to determine the appropriate course of treatment for their heartburn symptoms.

The Best Treatment for You

Evaluating the type of heartburn you are suffering and knowing the relative value of OTC medications available are key to determining the best course of treatment.

If you have not found a remedy that effectively manages your heartburn, talk to your health-care professional and seek assistance to find the best treatment for you. Even frequent heartburn sufferers can now treat their symptoms effectively with an OTC medication.

The material in this site is intended to be of general informational use and is not intended to constitute medical advice, probable diagnosis or recommended treatments. For severe heartburn or heartburn that persists after trying over-the-counter treatment or lifestyle modifications, visit your doctor to determine the right treatment for you. See the Terms and Conditions for more information.