Antacids

• Antacids may be taken when needed on an empty stomach or after a meal.


• The antacid label contains information on how often you can take the medication, the maximum amount that can be taken in 24 hours and what precautions should be observed to prevent adverse effects. This information will vary for different antacid products.


• Read the packaging label carefully. Also check with your doctor or pharmacist before use if you are already taking other OTC medications or prescription drugs as these may interact with the antacid.

H2 Receptor Antagonists

• H2 receptor antagonists, also known as H2 blockers, may be taken at any time when needed to treat heartburn. Individuals with only daytime heartburn may benefit from taking the medication in the morning, whereas those with nighttime heartburn should take the medication in the evening or before bedtime.


• No more than two doses (of either the reduced or higher nonprescription dosages) should be taken in any 24-hour period. If it is necessary to take the medication twice daily, it is best to separate the two doses by at least eight hours.


• In some individuals, the acid-blocking effect of an H2 receptor antagonist may decrease with continuous daily administration. This may result in decreased effectiveness. Therefore it is best to take an H2 receptor antagonist on a when needed basis if possible, rather than daily for several weeks.


• When an H2 blocker is used to prevent heartburn, it should be taken 10 to 60 minutes before eating food or drinking beverages that cause heartburn.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

• Nonprescription omeprazole magnesium—Prilosec OTC®—should be taken once a day for two weeks. You should not take this medication longer than 14 consecutive days without discussing it with your doctor.


• PPIs work best when the stomach is most actively producing acid—typically soon after meals. If you take the proton pump inhibitor 30 to 60 minutes before a meal, you will achieve the greatest effect from this drug.


• If you forget to take the medication prior to the meal, it is best not to skip a dose, so taking it with or immediately after the meal is better than not taking it at all.


• Taking the medication in the morning before breakfast is often preferred because most individuals remember to take their dosages at this time.


• You may take this medication before lunch or dinner if your heartburn occurs later in the day or at night, but avoid taking it on an empty stomach before bedtime.


• Prilosec OTC as a single daily dose provides protection against heartburn for up to 24 hours.

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.