Acid Reducers

Acid reducer medicine (medication) is what people call medicines that can inhibit the production of stomach acid. 
They are used chiefly in treating acid reflux, GERD, and peptic ulcers.
These drugs can prevent reflux from interacting with acid by either neutralizing the acid in the stomach or decreasing the acid production by the stomach lining.
It may also be a good way of treating some symptoms of heartburn, stomach pain, or indigestion.

How do Acid Reducers Work?

Acid reducers work in several ways to reduce the acidity in the stomach: 

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs):

These drugs inhibit the enzyme found in the stomach wall that generates acid, eventually minimizing the amount of acid produced.

H2 blockers:

These medicines block histamine, a substance that exists in the body and controls the level of acid in the stomach, reducing acid production.

Antacids:

These are substances that neutralize stomach acid. They first react directly with the stomach acid to make it less acidic.

Prokinetics:

These medications speed up gastric emptying and reduce the contact of the stomach acid with the esophagus. 

These medicines help reduce acidity in the stomach, enabling the patients to feel better. They are used as symptom relievers in acid reflux, GERD, and peptic ulcers.

What are the common types of acid reducers available? 

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): 

The human form of these drugs is omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid) and esomeprazole (Nexium). PPIs are daily prescribed medications that prevent the enzyme in our stomach wall from creating acid.

H2 blockers:

Some of the drugs against GI distress are lansoprazole (Zoton), omeprazole (Losec), and esomeprazole (Nexium). H2 blockers are taken once or twice a day to interfere with histamine, a chemical in the body that prompts the stomach to make acid. 

Antacids:

Alternatives are examples, such as calcium carbonate (Tums), magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia), and aluminum hydroxide (Maalox). Over-the-counter antacids are available to dispense by just a simple purchase, and they neutralize the stomach acid, thus increasing the pH value of the stomach.

Prokinetics:

Metoclopramide and domperidone (Reglan and Motilium) are examples of human medicine for this. , Prokinetics boosts the stomach to empty faster, thereby reducing the contact time of the stomach acid on the esophagus. 

Combination medications: 

Some acid reducers contain two different types of medications that work through a dual action mechanism to reduce stomach acid.

What are the benefits of using acid reducers? 

Relief from heartburn and acid reflux:

Acid inhibitors may improve heartburn symptoms, sour regurgitation, and indigestion by lessening the stomach's acid.

Treatment of GERD:

For those with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), acid reducers may reduce the number and intensity of the symptoms, e.g., heartburn and regurgitation.

Healing of peptic ulcers:

Antacids assist in healing peptic ulcers by suppressing stomach acidity. Thus, the ulcer can heal better. 

Prevention of damage to the esophagus:

Acid reductions decrease the acid in contact with the esophagus and thus prevent damage to the lining of the esophagus when there is acid reflux.

Improvement in overall quality of life: 

For many people, taking acid reducers can make a big difference in their lives and relieve the symptoms of acid-related conditions.

Are acid reducers safe to use?

Acid reducers are, in most cases, safe to use for the short term when taken accordingly. While they are effective for some individuals, they may have side effects. Common side effects of acid reducers may include: 

• Headache
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Abdominal Pain
• Fatigue

How should I take acid-reducer medicines? 

Follow your healthcare provider's instructions: Follow the medication regimen set by the doctor. Only take what is prescribed, and only come off of the medication with consultation with your health care provider.

Take the medication with or without food:

PPI, like some acid reducers, is to be taken before a meal, while H2 blockers do not have such time restrictions. Follow the instructions on the label, or take them as a healthcare professional directs.

Swallow the medication whole:

Do not mash, chew, or break the tablets or capsules unless instructed by your healthcare professional.

Take the medication at the same time(s) each day: 

It can help obtain the desired therapeutic level, i.e., the correct level of the medication in your body.

Continue taking the medication for the prescribed duration:

Even if you begin to notice that you are getting better, you should take the prescription medication as directed by your healthcare provider throughout the entire treatment.

Store the medication properly 

in its original packaging and avoid extra heat and moisture by keeping it at room temperature.

Can I take acid reducers with other medications?

Interactions with other medications:

Some medications can react with acid reducers. Thus, they become ineffective themselves or can cause more side effects. It is also vital to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, whether it is prescription drugs, over-the-counter products, or herbal supplements, to avoid any potential interaction.

Timing of medication:

Certain medicines should be taken at a specific time interval with your acid reducer to avoid interactions. Your healthcare provider or pharmacist can give you ideas on the optimal time frame for your medicines.

Dose adjustments:

Sometimes, your doctor might have to re-adjust the dose of your medications to reflect the possible interactions as one of the side effects. Be very careful about adjusting your medication dose without getting approval from your healthcare professional.

Monitoring: 

Your healthcare provider may convince you to monitor your medication if you are on several medications constantly. This will help in checking for any signs of interactions or side effects.

Are there any lifestyle changes that can help manage acid reflux?

Elevate the head of your bed:

If you raise your bed's head by 6 to 8 inches, stomach acid will not return to the esophagus during sleep.

Quit smoking:

Smoking can cause the production of more stomach acids and also, at the same time, diminish the muscle of the valve between the Esophagus and stomach, which leads to acid reflux. Cessation of smoking can help improve conditions.

Manage stress:

Stress can aggravate gastroesophageal reflux symptoms. Implementation of stress-alleviating practices like Yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises may be used to control symptoms.

Wear loose-fitting clothing:

Tight-fitting clothing, especially on your waist, can cause acid reflux if you do it continuously. Avoid tight clothing and wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes to keep pressure away from the stomach.

Avoid eating before bedtime: 

Eating late at night may increase your chances of having acid reflux. Eat a meal at least two to three hours before you go to bed.