Top 12 Best Heartburn & Acid Reflux OTC Medications
UpdatedOctober 23, 2024
Heartburn and acid reflux are two ailments that affect the digestive system and may cause pains in the chest region, particularly after taking a meal. Anyone seeking a remedy usually starts with the use of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. These medications are in the form of antacids, proton pump inhibitors, and H2 blockers.
While antacids are effective for counteracting the effect of stomach acid, proton pump inhibitors, and H2 blockers prevent the stomach from producing more acid. Selecting the proper over-the-counter medicine may be influenced by the intensity and recurrence of the symptoms, individual preferences, and history of diseases.
Altogether, we dedicate some time to study and compare different OTC medications to understand which one can help in treating heartburn and acid reflux. Our top picks offer a high level of relief with a low risk of side effects and clear instructions on how to take them.
Top 3 Best Heartburn & Acid Reflux OTC Medications
- Prilosec OTC, Omeprazole Delayed Release 20mg
- Curist Esomeprazole 20mg Capsules Delayed-Release
- Amazon Basic Care Omeprazole Delayed Release Tablets 20 mg
The following products have been chosen for several reasons, including efficacy, safety, and ease of use. Whether you sometimes feel uncomfortable with heartburn or you have acid reflux disease, we have a remedy for you. Continue reading below to see our top choices.
Prilosec OTC, Omeprazole Delayed Release 20mg
Prilosec OTC, Omeprazole Delayed Release 20mg
Doctors’ first pick for over 15 years. Full-day heartburn protection with just one daily pill containing omeprazole. The magic might take a few days to work, but 24-hour relief is what every man dreams of. Simply follow the instructions and keep in mind that it is not for immediate relief. Your dependable heartburn solution.
Prilosec OTC is a popular heartburn medication that you can try if you haven’t found a suitable one yet.
Pros
- With one pill each morning, block heartburn for a full 24 hours.
- Contains active ingredient omeprazole that prevents excess acid production for heartburn relief that lasts for 24 hours.
- #1 Doctor and Gastroenterologist recommended frequent heartburn medicine for over 15 years.
Cons
- May take 1 to 4 days for full effect.
- Do not take for more than 14 days or more often than every 4 months unless directed by a doctor.
- Not for immediate relief.
Prilosec OTC is a safe and effective heartburn medication that doctors have prescribed for more than a decade and a half. Just one pill a day can help protect against heartburn for an entire day. Omeprazole is responsible for inhibiting acid production to allow for heartburn that lasts for 24 hours.
Depending on the dosage, one may have to wait for 1 to 4 days to feel the medicine work fully, but it is worth waiting for prolonged relief. One should not use it for more than 2 weeks or use it more frequently than once in a month unless advised by a doctor. Bear in mind that Prilosec OTC does not provide quick relief.
Curist Esomeprazole 20mg Capsules Delayed-Release
Curist Esomeprazole 20mg Capsules Delayed-Release
Curist’s Esomeprazole 20mg Capsules Delayed-Release is quite satisfactory in terms of effectiveness and cost, making it the best heartburn relief medication.
Pros
- The active ingredient is the same as in the leading name brand OTC medication.
- Provides long-lasting relief from heartburn.
- The strongest esomeprazole 20mg on the OTC market.
Cons
- May not work for everyone.
- Some users may experience side effects.
- Not suitable for children under 18.
The substance that produces the therapeutic effect is esomeprazole 20mg, which is the same active component in the same dosage as found in the leading OTC brand name product. To our surprise, this medication gave extended heartburn relief, which was a positive thing in our case.
The other thing that I like about Curist’s Esomeprazole 20mg Capsules Delayed-Release is that it is the strongest esomeprazole 20mg in the over-the-counter market. This essentially means that it acts to lessen the occurrence of heartburn and give comfort during the day as well as at night. It was also comforting that this medication was good to have in the medicine cabinet. That is why it is useful to always have a medication for heartburn at hand in case you experience this discomfort.
However, we would like to clarify that this medication may not be effective for everyone. Adverse effects include headache or nausea in some of the users of the drug. Also, this medication is contraindicated in children below the age of 18 years. All in all, we would advise anyone experiencing heartburn to consider using Curist’s Esomeprazole 20mg Capsules Delayed-Release.
Amazon Basic Care Omeprazole Delayed Release Tablets 20 mg
Amazon Basic Care Omeprazole Delayed Release Tablets 20 mg
If you are looking for an effective solution in treating frequent heartburn, the Amazon Basic Care Omeprazole Delayed Release Tablets 20 mg is a good choice.
Pros
- This heartburn medicine is a 14-day course of treatment that provides long-lasting relief from frequent heartburn.
- The active ingredient in these delayed-release tablets is omeprazole 20 mg, which works as an acid reducer to treat frequent heartburn.
- Amazon Basic Care Omeprazole Delayed Release Tablets 20 mg is a Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) that deactivates pumps in the stomach lining to inhibit acid production at the source.
Cons
- This heartburn medicine may take one to four days for full effect, although some people get complete relief of symptoms within 24 hours.
- Amazon Basic Care Omeprazole Delayed Release Tablets 20 mg is not intended for immediate relief of heartburn.
- Certain foods or drinks are more likely to cause heartburn, such as rich, spicy, fatty and fried foods, chocolate, caffeine, alcohol and even some fruits and vegetables.
The treatment lasts 2 weeks, and the fact that the effect is prolonged is a bonus.
It is important to note that this medication for heartburn may take up to four days to work fully, while some patients may be symptom-free in the first 24 hours. It is also worth knowing that Amazon Basic Care Omeprazole Delayed Release Tablets 20 mg is not for instant heartburn relief.
Amazon Basic Care Maximum Strength Famotidine Tablets 20 mg
Amazon Basic Care Maximum Strength Famotidine Tablets 20 mg
If you want an effective treatment for heartburn and acid reflux, you should consider getting Amazon Basic Care Maximum Strength Famotidine Tablets 20 mg. This product is inexpensive, has no gluten, and can neutralize and relieve heartburn for up to 12 hours.
Pros
- Amazon Basic Care Maximum Strength Famotidine Tablets 20 mg contains 20 mg of famotidine, an acid reducer for heartburn relief, which compares to the active ingredient in Maximum Strength Pepcid AC.
- This product helps to relieve heartburn due to acid indigestion and sour stomach, and prevents heartburn due to acid indigestion brought on by eating and drinking certain foods and beverages.
- Just one tablet prevents and relieves heartburn due to acid indigestion brought on by eating and drinking certain foods and beverages.
Cons
- Some users may experience side effects such as headache, dizziness, and constipation.
- This product is not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
- This product may not be effective for severe heartburn symptoms.
We know it is cheap and does not contain gluten thus it can be used by many users across the society. This product contains an H2-blocker which is an acid reducer that will help in the management of heartburn. This we have discovered to be effective when taken 10 to 60 minutes prior as it is effective against heartburn for the next 12 hours.
It is known to have some side effects including headache, dizziness, and constipation, and no adverse reactions have occurred to our users. Still, we suggest that you should seek medical advice before taking any new drugs. Besides, this product should not be used by children under the age of twelve years and it’s not suitable for severe heartburn cases.
Based on these observations, we can highly endorse the Ohm Omeprazole Tablets as the best solution to combat frequent heartburn.
Pros
- Treats frequent heartburn
- Affordable compared to name brand and other generic counterparts
- Three 14-day courses of treatment
Cons
- May take 1 to 4 days for full effect
- No additional flavors or forms available
- May not be suitable for severe cases of acid reflux
Ohm Omeprazole Tablets are an antacid used to treat frequent heartburn. From the tablets, we discovered that they eased our heartburn issues and the effects were noticed within several days of taking the tablets.
The benefits of using Ohm Omeprazole Tablets include; The tablets are readily affordable. They work in the same way as name brand and other generic medications but are significantly cheaper. It is divided into three packets and each packet contains 14 days of treatment so the price is quite affordable.
However, the tablets will require 1-4 days for the full effects to kick in and therefore they cannot be used for short-term relief of heartburn. Also, the tablets are available in a single form and flavor, which means that individuals who prefer other forms or flavors of medicine may not find these tablets suitable for them.
Pepcid AC Maximum Strength Heartburn Relief Tablets
Pepcid AC Maximum Strength Heartburn Relief Tablets
If you want a medication that can quickly help you manage and even eliminate the occurrence of heartburn then you should try Pepcid AC Maximum Strength Heartburn Relief Tablets.
Pros
- The 20mg of famotidine in each tablet provides maximum strength aid in the relief and prevention of acid indigestion.
- Just one tablet controls acid all day or all night.
- Can be taken as early as 60 minutes prior to eating, or in as little as 15 minutes before consuming food and beverages that contribute to heartburn.
Cons
- May cause side effects such as headache, dizziness, or constipation.
- Should not be taken more than 2 tablets in 24 hours.
- May not be suitable for individuals with kidney problems.
The tablets are small and can be easily swallowed with an immediate solution for heartburn that is related to acid indigestion and sour stomach. We understand that each tablet contains 20mg of famotidine which is an acid-reducing agent and controller.
Another strength of Pepcid AC Maximum Strength Heartburn Relief Tablets is that a one-tablet controls the acid all day or at night. This means you can take it as little as 10 minutes before eating and know you have acid control on your side all day or all night.
We also love that this acid neutralizing medicine can be taken at least 60 minutes before food, or just at least 15 minutes before the food and beverages that cause heartburn. This makes it possible to carry a pack of acid indigestion relief tablets at home and at the workplace to ease heartburn whenever it happens.
EsomepraCare Esomeprazole Magnesium 20 mg Delayed-Release Capsules
EsomepraCare Esomeprazole Magnesium 20 mg Delayed-Release Capsules
If you want a heartburn medication that will give you complete relief for the whole day, then EsomepraCare Esomeprazole Magnesium 20 mg Delayed-Release Capsules is what you need.
Pros
- Provides complete protection from heartburn all day and night.
- Inhibits acid production at the source for complete heartburn protection.
- Contains proven heartburn treatment that compares to the active ingredient in Nexium 24Hr.
Cons
- May take 1 to 4 days for full effect.
- Comes in 3 x 14 Count Bottles inside each box, which may be inconvenient for some users.
- Not suitable for immediate relief of heartburn symptoms.
The active ingredient is Esomeprazole Magnesium which works by closing all the active acid pumps in the stomach, thus giving 24-hour protection against heartburn. It works by decreasing how much acid is made in the first place: it turns the body’s acid pumps off, preventing acid from being produced in the first place.
We learned that this medication is an effective heartburn remedy that is as effective as the active component in Nexium 24Hr. It must be taken once daily for 14 days and each bottle is one 14-day cure which makes 6 bottles of cure or 84 capsules in all. However, it may take 1 to 4 days to have the full effect, therefore it is advisable to plan for it.
We like this medication as it has been proven to work well but what we realized is that each box contains 3 x 14 Count Bottles which can be a hassle to some people. Also, it is not meant for quick heartburn relief and should be taken according to the label to be fully effective.
Tagamet HB 200 mg Cimetidine Acid Reducer and Heartburn Relief, 30 Count Original 30 Count (Pack of 1)
Tagamet HB 200 mg Cimetidine Acid Reducer and Heartburn Relief, 30 Count Original 30 Count (Pack of 1)
For those seeking a non-prescription remedy for heartburn, you should consider using Tagamet HB 200 as it will effectively do the job.
Pros
- Tagamet HB 200 relieves and prevents heartburn, acid indigestion and sour stomach.
- Tagamet HB 200 controls stomach acid for hours and prevents heartburn from returning.
- Tagamet HB 200 lasts for hours. And unlike Pepcid complete, you can take Tagamet HB 200 at mealtime to prevent your heartburn.
Cons
- Some users may experience side effects such as headache, dizziness, and diarrhea.
- Tagamet HB 200 may interact with other medications, so it's important to consult with your doctor before use.
- It may take longer to feel the effects of Tagamet HB 200 compared to other antacids.
Tagamet HB 200 is an effective drug which is used for the prevention and treatment of heartburn due to acid indigestion and sour stomach. We understand that it can be consumed before lunch to avoid heartburn and its effectiveness lasts for hours. However, care should be taken when using Tagamet HB 200 because it has been reported to have interaction with other medicines. Furthermore, side effects like headache, dizziness, and diarrhea may be experienced by some users.
GeriCare Omeprazole Delayed Release Capsules 20.6mg
GeriCare Omeprazole Delayed Release Capsules 20.6mg
If you are interested in an effective and long-standing treatment of regular heartburn and acid reflux, GeriCare Omeprazole Delayed-Release Capsules 20. If 6mg is not within your comfort level, then 6mg may be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- Complete 14-day treatment to fight frequent heartburn
- Effective acid reducer to get rid of frequent heartburn
- Delayed release omeprazole capsules for long-lasting results
Cons
- May take 1 to 4 days for full effect
- Not intended for immediate relief of heartburn
- Capsules may be larger than other brands
Unlike ordinary antacid tablets which give a temporary solution to the problem, GeriCare capsules come with a 14-day package which keeps the problem of acid reflux away. You get three bottles of heartburn relief medicine in each package, with each bottle having 14 capsules, so you can avoid acid reflux for several months.
The capsules contain 20. 6mg Omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that works by inactivating the pumps on the stomach lining to block acid production in its entirety. The delayed-release formula is not designed to provide quick relief of heartburn so if you are getting heartburn regularly then this will help to stop it from happening as frequently and severely. But the effects can take 1 to 4 days to become apparent.
GoodSense Omeprazole Delayed Release Tablets 20 mg
GoodSense Omeprazole Delayed Release Tablets 20 mg
We highly recommend GoodSense Omeprazole Delayed Release Tablets 20 mg which are often used for frequent heartburn.
Pros
- GoodSense Omeprazole Delayed Release Tablets 20 mg is an effective acid reducer that treats frequent heartburn occurring 2 or more times per week.
- The active ingredient, omeprazole 20 mg, is comparable to Prilosec OTC.
- GoodSense Omeprazole Delayed Release Tablets 20 mg is a 14-day course of heartburn treatment that is easy to take.
Cons
- GoodSense Omeprazole Delayed Release Tablets 20 mg is not intended for immediate relief of heartburn and may take 1 to 4 days for full effect.
- It is important to follow heartburn tips such as not eating late at night or just before bedtime to get the most out of the medication.
- Some people may experience side effects such as headache or diarrhea.
The tablets are easy to swallow and the 14-day treatment regimen fits perfectly for individuals who often have problems with heartburn. What we liked most about the product is that the active ingredient was omeprazole 20mg which is equivalent to Prilosec OTC and costs even less.
As a side note, it is essential to understand that GoodSense Omeprazole Delayed Release Tablets 20 mg should not be used for quick relief of heartburn; however, when taken as directed, the product effectively protects against heartburn. It is also advisable to follow other measures such as avoiding foods that cause heartburn and not eating heavy meals, especially in the evening to enjoy the benefits of the medication.
If you are in need of a quick fix for your heartburn and gas issues, then Alka-Seltzer Heartburn+Gas ReliefChews could be exactly what you need.
Pros
- The chews offer fast relief of heartburn, gas, and bloating.
- The tropical fruit flavor is refreshing and doesn't leave a chalky aftertaste.
- The chews are conveniently sized for on-the-go relief.
Cons
- The recommended dosage is limited to 6 tablets in a 24-hour period.
- The package may vary from the image shown.
- Some people may not like the tropical fruit flavor.
Calcium carbonate and Simethicone are the active ingredients in the chews that begin to act immediately upon administration.
The tablets have a delicious taste of tropical fruits and they can easily be chewed and swallowed and do not cause a chalky or gritty feeling in the throat. We understand that the chews are small and perfect for carrying in a backpack, purse, gym bag, and many others to ensure that relief is only a chew away.
To use, adults and children 12 years and over should fully chew then swallow 1 to 2 chewable tablets as symptoms occur, or as directed by a doctor. However, it is important to know that patients above 60 years should not take more than 4 tablets within a 24-hour period while the general dosage should not exceed 6 tablets within a 24-hour period.
Zantac 360 Maximum Strength Tablets seem to be your best bet if you want a quick, long-lasting heartburn remedy.
Pros
- Zantac 360 has a Triple Action formula that prevents, relieves, and lasts.
- It starts working in as little as 10 minutes.
- Zantac 360 reduces stomach acid production for up to 12 hours.
Cons
- Acid control does not correlate with symptom relief.
- Zantac 360 might not work for everyone.
- You need to use it as directed.
The tablets can be swallowed whole and they take effect within the shortest time possible. We note that Zantac 360 is available in a Triple Action formula that not only treats heartburn but also helps to prevent it.
What we love about Zantac 360 is that it can address the root of the problem and block stomach acid for up to 12 hours. This means that we can take it in the morning and will not have to suffer from heartburn the whole day. It is however important to point out that acid control does not necessarily result in fewer symptoms hence your experience could be different.
Although Zantac 360 is fantastic for us, it may not be the same for others. It is advisable to use it as prescribed and consult a doctor if you encounter any problems. All in all, we recommend Zantac 360 Maximum Strength Tablets for anyone in need of fast-acting, long-burning heartburn alleviation.
Buying Guide
Some considerations when selecting an OTC product for heartburn and GERD include the following. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Active Ingredients
The active constituent in an OTC product is the chemical that helps to cure heartburn and acid reflux ailments. Look for products that contain ingredients such as:
Active Ingredients
The active constituent in an OTC product is the chemical that helps to cure heartburn and acid reflux ailments. Look for products that contain ingredients such as:
Active Ingredients
The active constituent in an OTC product is the chemical that helps to cure heartburn and acid reflux ailments. Look for products that contain ingredients such as:
Active Ingredients
The active constituent in an OTC product is the chemical that helps to cure heartburn and acid reflux ailments. Look for products that contain ingredients such as:
Dosage Form
OTC heartburn and acid reflux medications are available in the form of tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, and liquids. Decide which form is most suitable for you and your routine.
Strength
There are several types and strengths of OTC medications for the treatment of heartburn and acid reflux. When selecting a product be specific to ensure that it has the strength that can address your symptoms. If your heartburn is frequent and intense you may need prescription strength medication.
Duration of Action
Some OTC drugs are fast-acting but the effect only lasts for a few hours while others have a long-lasting effect. Think about how long you want relief and select the appropriate product.
- Antacids: These work to counteract the effects of stomach acid and can be effective in the short term. Some of the familiar antacids include the ones containing calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, and aluminum hydroxide.
- H2 blockers: These help to decrease the amount of stomach acid produced and may offer more sustained relief. Some of the most widely used H2 blockers are ranitidine and famotidine.
- Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These also decrease the secretion of acid in the stomach and offers relief for up to one day. Some examples of PPIs are omeprazole and lansoprazole.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the safest over-the-counter medications for acid reflux?
Antacids are the safest over the counter medication used to treat acid reflux and include Tums, Rolaids, and Mylanta. These medications inhibit stomach acid and can be safely used in the short term.
What are the best OTC medications for heartburn relief?
H2 blockers are the most suitable OTC remedies for heartburn, including Zantac and Pepcid. These medications act by inhibiting the production of acid in the stomach, and are generally helpful for most patients.
What is the strongest OTC medicine for acid reflux?
The best OTC medicine for acid reflux is proton pump inhibitors PPIs which include; Prilosec and Nexium. They help to inhibit the secretion of stomach acid and can be used in cases of severe and chronic acid reflux.
Which is better for acid reflux, Prilosec or Pepcid?
Both Prilosec and Pepcid help with acid reflux, but they do so through different mechanisms. Prilosec is a PPI that inhibits the secretion of stomach acid, while Pepcid is an H2 blocker that decreases the amount of acid produced in the stomach. The decision between them depends on the symptoms’ intensity and frequency and should be made only with the help of a doctor.
What is the number one recommended heartburn relief?
The first line of management for heartburn relief is to modify one’s lifestyle and undergo medication. Such modifications include avoiding foods that cause flare-ups, losing weight, and smoking cessation. Some medications taken are antacids, H2 blockers, and PPIs depending on the severity and frequency of the symptoms.
Are there any prescription medications to reduce stomach acid?
Yes, there are prescription medications for less stomach acid, which include prescription-strength PPIs and H2 blockers. Most of them are stronger than non-prescription drugs and should not be taken without consulting a doctor or pharmacist.
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