Over-the-counter Remedies for Heartburn
| Type of Remedy | Examples | How They Work | How Long They Last | Why They Are Used |
| Antacids |
• Alka-Seltzer • Bromo-Seltzer • Gelusil • Maalox • Milk of Magnesia • Mylanta • Riopan • Rolaids • Tums |
They neutralize existing stomach acid | 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on whether the stomach is empty or full | To relieve heartburn, sour stomach, or indigestion |
|
H2 Blockers (Histamine Receptor Antagonists) |
• Axid AR • Pepcid AC • Tagament HB • Zantac 75 |
Inhibits the action of histamine, which stimulates the secretion of stomach acid. This partially blocks the production of stomach acid | 6 to 10 hours |
Relieves heartburn, sour stomach, and indigestion. Prevents heartburn caused by eating and drinking certain foods and beverages. |
|
Antacid H2 (Combination of antacid and H2 Blocker) |
Pepcid Complete | The antacid neutralizes existing stomach acid and the H2 Blocker inhibits the production of stomach acid. | 6 to 10 hours | Relieves heartburn, sour stomach, and indigestion. |
|
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) |
Prilosec OTC | Deactivates acid pumps in the cells of the stomach, where stomach acid is produced. This thus inhibits the acid production. | Up to 24 hours | Used to treat frequent heartburn that occurs two or more days a week. |
