The usual treatment for heartburn consists of antacids which are over-the-counter drugs. Samples of these popular antacids are Maalox, Tums, and Rolaids. There are also drugs that aim to lower the production of acids in the stomach. These are called H-2 Receptor blockers, and the generic names are cimetidine or ranitidine, among others. These drugs are considered maintenance drugs as compared to antacids which are like temporary acid pain relievers.

There are also drugs that you can take that will heal the esophagus from further acid damage, and these can also be bought over-the-counter. These generic medicines are omeprazole and lansoprazole. What they do is to block the production of acid and are termed as proton pump inhibitors.

It must be noted that before taking any kind of medication, even over-the-counter drugs, you must talk to your doctor. It is possible that a lifestyle check as well as a dietary change can solve your problem, and you need not take any medicine at all.

For instance, if you sit at an incline after meals, and avoid tight fitting clothes, you can prevent acid from traveling upwards. You should never lie down though wherein your head is at the same level as your stomach. This could encourage regurgitation which could be unpleasant at best.

Suppose you start taking OTC drugs but there heartburn still persists, if you visit your doctor, he might prescribe stronger medicine for you such as metoclopramide which is a prokinetic drug that allows for quicker digestion as well as strengthening the LES or the lower esophageal sphincter. This LES is a muscle that is found at the lower part of your esophagus. Normally, it would open to allow the food to go to the stomach, and then close after. GERD happens when this LES does not close properly.

Prokinetic drugs help this muscle function better.

It is also very possible that not just one drug will help you but a combination of drugs. In addition, some of these drugs should never be taken as a maintenance drug, and should only be taken for a few weeks. The only person who can help decide this would be your doctor, and this is why it is imperative that you consult with a doctor from the moment you experience chronic heartburn.