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 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 three 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 symptoms occur two or more days a week.

Because some individuals engage in compensatory behaviors to offset frequent 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 readily identify themselves as frequent heartburn sufferers.

Although frequent heartburn symptoms can be reduced with OTC medications, antacids or H2 blockers proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as Prilosec OTC® is the leading OTC medication indicated specifically for frequent heartburn. PPIs, powerful inhibitors of stomach acid production, shut down many of the acid pumps in the cells of the stomach, leaving enough acid for normal digestion of food. Prilosec OTC can provide 24-hour treatment of frequent heartburn with one pill a day 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 more serious conditions. These individuals should receive prompt medical evaluation to determine the appropriate course of treatment for their heartburn symptoms. It's possible while taking Prilosec OTC. Use as directed to treat frequent heartburn. Do not take for more than 14 days or more often than every 4 months unless directed by a doctor.

The Best Treatment for You

Evaluating the type of heartburn 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. Many 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. OTC PPIs are only indicated for treatment of frequent heartburn. 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.