Antacids for Heartburn: Effective Options for Relief
UpdatedOctober 23, 2024
Heartburn, that burning sensation in the chest and throat, can be an extremely unpleasant and disruptive experience. The discomfort caused by acid reflux can challenge simple activities, like eating or lying down. A study estimates that about 20% of adults have GERD, making heartburn extremely common.
When heartburn strikes, finding quick and effective relief becomes a top priority. However, with so many antacid products on the market, each claiming to be the best, it can be overwhelming to determine which one will provide the soothing relief you need.
Several top-rated antacid products are specifically designed to combat heartburn and provide fast-acting relief from the burning sensation caused by acid reflux. With a suitable antacid for heartburn, you can find soothing relief and get back to your daily routine without the discomfort of heartburn.
Effectiveness of Antacids For Heartburn
Antacids are effective due to their ability to neutralize stomach acid, increasing the pH level and thereby reducing acidity. The key active ingredients in antacids are the following:
- Aluminum hydroxide
- Calcium carbonate
- Magnesium hydroxide
- Sodium bicarbonate
These ingredients react with stomach acid to form water and other neutral compounds. This reduction in acidity helps alleviate the burning sensation associated with heartburn. Additionally, antacids inhibit the activity of the proteolytic enzyme pepsin and bind bile acids, providing further relief from symptoms.
Antacids are often recommended as the first line of treatment for mild to moderate heartburn, particularly due to their rapid onset of action. This is especially beneficial for patients who require quick relief. Moreover, antacids are considered safe for use during pregnancy, making them a preferred option for pregnant women experiencing heartburn.
The formulation and administration of antacids play a crucial role in their effectiveness. Antacids are available in different forms, including powders, tablets, and liquids. Generally, powders and liquids tend to have a faster onset of action compared to tablets. An antacid's effectiveness is also determined by its acid-neutralizing capacity (ANC) and buffering capacity. Products with higher ANC and better buffering capacities provide more effective and longer-lasting relief from heartburn.
Best Antacids for Heartburn
We have researched the Top 10 Antacids for Heartburn and selected them based on their effectiveness, quality, user reviews, and recommendations from healthcare professionals. These antacids provide varying benefits in terms of fast-acting relief, long-lasting effects, ease of use, and suitability for different dietary needs.
TUMS Smoothies Extra Strength Antacid Chewable Tablets offer a fast-acting solution for heartburn relief. These chewable tablets come in assorted fruit flavors and contain 750 mg of calcium carbonate, an active ingredient known for neutralizing stomach acid.
TUMS, a trusted brand for 90 years, is recommended by doctors, pharmacists, and OB-GYNs for its reliable performance. These tablets are designed for adults and children 12 years and older to relieve heartburn, sour stomach, acid indigestion, and upset stomach associated with these symptoms. Their smooth texture and pleasant taste make them an easy and convenient option for quick relief.
Pros
- TUMS Smoothies start neutralizing acid on contact, providing quick and effective relief from heartburn and related symptoms.
- TUMS is a trusted brand.
- The compact, resealable bottle makes it easy to carry these tablets in a purse or pocket, ensuring you have relief on hand when needed.
- These chewable tablets are gluten-free and kosher, accommodating various dietary restrictions.
- The assorted fruit flavors make these tablets more enjoyable to consume compared to other antacid options.
Cons
- With 750 mg of calcium carbonate per tablet, users needing a lower or higher dose might need to adjust their intake, which could be less convenient.
- While many find chewable tablets convenient, some users prefer non-chewable options, such as liquid antacids or dissolvable tablets.
- Although rare, some users may experience mild side effects like constipation or a chalky aftertaste.
Gaviscon Extra Strength Cherry Chewable Tablets offer a reliable solution for fast-acting heartburn relief. With a pleasant cherry flavor, these chewable tablets contain the active ingredients aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate. These ingredients quickly neutralize stomach acid, relieving heartburn, sour stomach, acid indigestion, and upset stomach associated with these symptoms.
Gastroenterologists recommend Gaviscon, which has a long-standing reputation for effectiveness. The tablets are designed to keep stomach acid down for hours, ensuring long-lasting relief. They come in a compact, portable bottle, making them convenient for use at home or on the go.
Pros
- Gaviscon tablets start to neutralize stomach acid quickly, providing immediate relief from heartburn and related symptoms.
- These tablets help keep acid down for hours, ensuring prolonged relief.
- Gaviscon is a trusted brand recommended by healthcare professionals for its effectiveness in managing heartburn.
- The compact bottle is easy to carry, making it convenient for use at home or while traveling.
- The cherry flavor makes these tablets more enjoyable to consume compared to other antacid options.
Cons
- The specific dosage of active ingredients may only suit some, requiring some users to adjust their intake.
- While convenient for many, some users may prefer other forms of antacids, such as liquids or dissolvable tablets.
- Although rare, some users may experience mild side effects like a chalky aftertaste or slight discomfort.
Pepcid AC Maximum Strength Heartburn Relief Tablets provide a fast and effective solution for preventing and relieving heartburn. Each tablet contains 20 mg of famotidine, a clinically proven acid reducer that works quickly to neutralize stomach acid. These tablets can be taken as early as 15 minutes before consuming food or beverages that typically cause heartburn.
Users can achieve all-day or all-night relief with just one tablet, making it a convenient option for managing acid indigestion and sour stomachs. The tablets come in a compact package, ideal for carrying in a bag or keeping at the office for on-the-go relief.
Pros
- Pepcid AC Maximum Strength tablets begin to work in as little as 15 minutes, providing quick relief from heartburn.
- One tablet controls acid all day or night, offering extended relief from symptoms.
- The active ingredient, famotidine, is a well-known and effective acid reducer, recommended by doctors and gastroenterologists.
- The compact packaging makes it easy to carry these tablets wherever you go, ensuring relief is always within reach.
- Tablets can be taken before meals or beverages that trigger heartburn, preventing symptoms before they start.
Cons
- Each tablet contains a fixed dose of 20 mg of famotidine, which may not suit everyone’s needs for varying levels of relief.
- While effective for heartburn, the product may not address other digestive issues some users might experience.
- Although rare, some users may experience mild side effects such as headaches or gastrointestinal discomfort.
Maalox Plus Antacid Tablets effectively relieve acid indigestion, heartburn, and gas. These chewable tablets come in a pleasant Lemon Swiss Creme flavor, making them easy to take and enjoy. Maalox has been a trusted brand for years, and it is known for its ability to quickly alleviate discomfort caused by digestive issues.
Each tablet contains active ingredients that work together to neutralize stomach acid and reduce bloating, offering a reliable solution for those experiencing frequent digestive troubles. Conveniently packaged, these tablets can be taken on the go, ensuring relief is always within reach.
Pros
- It provides quick relief from acid indigestion, heartburn, and gas.
- The chewable tablets are easy to consume and come in a pleasant Lemon Swiss Creme flavor.
- Maalox is a trusted brand known for its effectiveness in relieving digestive discomfort.
- Convenient packaging makes it easy to carry and use the tablets on the go.
- Neutralizes stomach acid and reduces bloating, addressing multiple symptoms with one product.
Cons
- Some users may find the taste of the Lemon Swiss Creme flavor different from their liking.
- Packaging and tablet size may not be as convenient as liquid or smaller tablet alternatives.
Rolaids Advanced Antacid Plus Anti-Gas Softchews offer a convenient and effective solution for heartburn, gas, and bloating. Each soft chew combines the acid-neutralizing power of calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide with the gas-relieving benefits of simethicone.
The mixed berry flavor makes them more palatable than traditional antacid tablets. These soft chews provide multi-symptom relief, targeting heartburn and discomfort associated with gas and bloating. The individually wrapped chews are easy to carry, making them a practical choice for on-the-go relief.
Pros
- Combine antacid and anti-gas ingredients to simultaneously address heartburn, gas, and bloating.
- It starts working quickly to neutralize stomach acid and relieve symptoms.
- Individually wrapped chews are easy to carry and use anytime, anywhere.
- The mixed berry flavor makes the chews more enjoyable than traditional chalky antacids.
- It contains calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide for acid relief, along with simethicone for gas relief.
Cons
- Some users may find the chewy texture less pleasant, and it can stick to teeth.
- Despite the mixed berry flavor, some users may find the taste too artificial.
Gelusil Antacid and Anti-Gas Tablets are reliable for those suffering from heartburn, acid reflux, bloating, and gas. Formulated with aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone, Gelusil provides quick relief by neutralizing stomach acid and alleviating gas discomfort.
The tablets are designed for fast-acting, multi-symptom relief, making them ideal for both occasional and nighttime heartburn. The refreshing cool mint flavor enhances the overall experience, ensuring the tablets are pleasant to chew and consume. With a trusted history of over 70 years, Gelusil remains a go-to choice for many seeking immediate and effective heartburn relief.
Pros
- Fast-acting relief for heartburn, acid reflux, indigestion, upset stomach, and gas.
- Multi-symptom relief with a combination of aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone.
- Pleasant cool mint flavor makes the tablets easy to chew and consume.
- Safe to use with 24-hour heartburn medications for breakthrough symptoms.
- Helps prevent acid rebound, unlike calcium carbonate-based products.
- Convenient packaging in a 100-count blister pack, making it easy to carry and use as needed.
- Suitable for both occasional and nighttime heartburn relief.
Cons
- Some users may find the texture of the tablets unpleasant, with reports of a gritty feel.
- Some users might not prefer the need to chew the tablets.
- Overuse of the product can lead to potential side effects such as constipation due to the aluminum hydroxide content.
CVS Health Extra Strength Sugar Free Antacid Tablets offer a comprehensive solution for those suffering from heartburn, acid indigestion, sour stomach, and related discomforts. Each tablet contains 750 mg of active ingredients designed to neutralize stomach acid quickly and effectively.
The sugar-free product makes it suitable for individuals monitoring their sugar intake. These tablets come in a convenient 80-count pack of 3, ensuring that relief is always on hand, whether at home, work or on the go. With a berry flavor, these chewable tablets are easy to take and provide a pleasant taste experience, making them a reliable choice among antacids for heartburn.
Pros
- Extra strength formula relieves heartburn, acid indigestion, sour stomach, and related symptoms.
- Sugar-free composition makes it a suitable option for those managing their sugar intake.
- A convenient pack of 3 ensures a steady supply, ideal for frequent users.
- Berry flavor enhances the taste, making the tablets more palatable than other antacids.
- It is clinically proven effective, offering peace of mind to users looking for reliable relief.
Cons
- The large pack size might be unnecessary for infrequent users.
- While pleasant for many, the berry flavor might not appeal to everyone's taste preferences.
- Some users prefer a tablet that doesn't require chewing.
Alka-Seltzer Extra Strength Heartburn Relief Chews provide a fast-acting solution for those experiencing heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach. These chewable tablets are designed to deliver rapid relief, neutralizing stomach acids within seconds.
The product has assorted fruit flavors, making it a pleasant alternative to traditional, chalky antacids. With a convenient portable size, these chews are perfect for on-the-go relief, fitting easily into a backpack, purse, or gym bag. As a trusted brand for over 90 years, Alka-Seltzer offers effective and reliable products to help users manage their digestive discomforts.
Pros
- It provides fast and effective relief from heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach.
- Assorted fruit flavors offer a pleasant taste experience, avoiding the chalky texture of some antacids.
- Conveniently portable, making it easy to carry and use anytime, anywhere.
- It contains 750 mg of calcium carbonate per tablet, ensuring powerful relief.
- Trusted brand with over 90 years of history in providing effective heartburn solutions.
Cons
- The assorted fruit flavors, while generally liked, might not appeal to everyone's taste preferences.
- It contains artificial colorings and flavorings, which may concern some individuals seeking more natural products.
Alka-Seltzer Fizzy Melts offer a convenient and effective solution for occasional heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach. These innovative antacid tablets are designed to dissolve on your tongue without the need for water, providing fast relief when you need it most.
The tablets are individually wrapped and packaged in 2-tablet pouches, making them perfect for on-the-go use. Alka-Seltzer Fizzy Melts are a refreshing alternative to traditional chalky antacids with a pleasant orange flavor. The main ingredient, calcium carbonate, quickly neutralizes stomach acid, ensuring rapid relief from digestive discomfort. Trusted for over 90 years, Alka-Seltzer continues to deliver reliable and effective options among antacids for heartburn and overall digestive health.
Pros
- Alka-Seltzer Fizzy Melts quickly relieve occasional heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach.
- The tablets dissolve on the tongue without the need for water, offering a convenient solution for on-the-go use.
- Pleasant orange flavor and fizzy texture make them more enjoyable to take compared to traditional chalky antacids.
- Individually wrapped tablets are easy to carry in a purse, pocket, or travel bag.
- Trusted brand with over 90 years of experience in delivering effective digestive health products.
- Packaged in convenient 2-tablet pouches for easy dosing.
Cons
- Some users may find the orange flavor and fizzy texture not to their liking.
- Each pack contains only 64 tablets, potentially requiring frequent repurchasing for regular users.
- The fizzy sensation may not be preferred by everyone, especially those used to traditional tablets.
Mylanta Maximum Strength Formula offers fast-acting relief for heartburn and gas-related symptoms. This liquid antacid neutralizes stomach acid on contact, immediately relieving heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach. The product comes in a classic lemon mint flavor and includes a dosage cup for easy measurement.
With its extra coating power and smooth, creamy taste, Mylanta is gentle on the body and can be used as directed every day. It is paraben-free and comes in an easy-grip bottle, making it a convenient and effective option for those who suffer from frequent digestive discomfort, offering a trusted choice among antacids for heartburn.
Pros
- Provides fast and effective relief from heartburn, acid indigestion, and gas-related symptoms.
- Neutralizes stomach acid on contact for immediate relief.
- Comes in a smooth, creamy lemon mint flavor that is easy to consume.
- Includes a dosage cup for accurate and easy measurement.
- Paraben-free and gentle on the body, making it suitable for regular use.
- The easy-grip bottle design enhances convenience and portability.
Cons
- The taste, while generally well-received, may not be preferred by everyone.
- As a liquid, it may not be as convenient for on-the-go use compared to tablets or chewable forms.
- Some users might find the need for a dosage cup less convenient than pre-measured tablets.
- Despite its effectiveness, some users may experience varying degrees of relief depending on individual conditions.
Final Thoughts
Among the various antacid products discussed, Gaviscon Extra Strength Cherry Chewable Tablets stand out as an exceptional choice for heartburn relief. These chewable tablets provide fast-acting relief by neutralizing stomach acid quickly and offer long-lasting effects, helping to keep acid down for hours. Gaviscon has a long-standing reputation for its effectiveness in managing heartburn.
The pleasant cherry flavor and convenient, compact packaging make these tablets a practical solution for heartburn relief, whether at home or on the go. With the ability to neutralize acid and coat the esophagus, Gaviscon Extra Strength Cherry Chewable Tablets offer a comprehensive approach to addressing the discomfort caused by acid reflux.
If you're seeking a trusted and reliable solution for heartburn, consider trying Gaviscon Extra Strength Cherry Chewable Tablets. These are a top choice among antacids for heartburn, providing both rapid and long-lasting relief.
FAQs about Antacids for Heartburn
When should you take an antacid for heartburn?
Antacids should be used when you have symptoms or think you will get them soon. For most people, the best time to take them is with or soon after meals, and just before going to bed.
What medications should not be taken with antacids?
This product may react with other medications (including digoxin, iron, pazopanib, tetracycline antibiotics, and quinolone antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin), preventing your body from fully absorbing them. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about scheduling your medications to avoid this problem.
Are there any conditions that make antacid use unsafe?
Most people can take an antacid safely. Ask your healthcare provider if it's safe to start taking antacids if you have heart failure, high blood pressure, or liver or kidney disease.
What lifestyle changes can help reduce the need for antacids for heartburn?
Lifestyle changes such as eating smaller meals, avoiding trigger foods (e.g., spicy or fatty foods), not lying down immediately after eating, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking can help reduce heartburn and the need for antacids.
References
- Maret-Ouda, J., Markar, S. R., & Lagergren, J. (2020). Gastroesophageal reflux disease: A review. JAMA, 324(24), 2536-2547. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2020.21360
- Garg, V., Narang, P., & Taneja, R. (2022). Antacids revisited: review on contemporary facts and relevance for self-management. Journal of International Medical Research, 50(3), 03000605221086457. https://doi.org/10.1177/03000605221086457