How long can you take heartburn medicine?

Do not take the maximum daily dose continuously for more than 2 weeks, unless directed by your doctor. Once your acid reflux improves, stop the medication.

What heartburn medicine can I take daily?

The proton-pump inhibitors esomeprazole (Nexium 24HR), lansoprazole (Prevacid 24HR), and omeprazole (Prilosec OTC) are sold over-the-counter to treat frequent heartburn (two or more times per week) for 14 days. These types of medicines are also available as higher-strength prescriptions.

Is taking antacids daily bad for you?

If you experience heartburn or chest pain and find yourself popping antacids more than two or three times a week, it is time to see your doctor. While antacids may relieve your symptoms, they won’t fix the root of the problem if you have an underlying health condition.

What happens if you take antacids everyday?

What is the safest heartburn medicine?

You may only have heartburn every now and then—such as after a big, spicy meal. This may be uncomfortable, but it is not serious. You can usually get relief from an antacid, like Rolaids or Tums, or an H2 blocker, such as Pepcid AC or Zantac.

Which antacid is safe for long-term use?

PPIs are effective, and some—such as lansoprazole (Prevacid) and omeprazole (Prilosec)—are readily available over the counter. Others, such as pantoprazole (Protonix), are frequently prescribed for long-term use.

How long is it safe to take antacids?

While both types of medication can be safe for long-term use, it is crucial to talk with your physician before taking them for more than two weeks. You need to get to the root of the problem to ensure you don’t have a serious health condition masking itself as indigestion.

Is having heartburn everyday bad?

Frequent heartburn can harm the lining of the esophagus and result in a condition called esophagitis. Over time, the esophagus can develop ulcers and scarring. This type of damage can increase your risk for esophageal cancer—another reason why it is very important to let your doctor know about frequent heartburn.

Should you take long-term medications for GERD?

The doctor and patient should discuss the pros and cons of long-term medication use together. “There are some patients whose GERD is so severe that they clearly need to be on long-term medication,” Esrailian says. “On the other hand, some GERD patients are put on long-term medication when their symptoms are just intermittent,” he notes.

What are the side effects of heartburn medication?

We now know that proton pump inhibitors, the most commonly used medications for acid reduction in heartburn, can result in bone loss and vitamin B12 deficiency when used chronically. Other acid — reducing medications appear to be associated with fewer side effects. Heartburn medication is only a bandage, a quick fix.

Is it safe to take indigestion medications long term?

While both types of medication can be safe for long-term use, it is crucial to talk with your physician before taking them for more than two weeks. You need to get to the root of the problem to ensure you don’t have a serious health condition masking itself as indigestion.

How do you get rid of heartburn naturally?

A heartburn medication is a synthetic drug to stop the stomach acid, but the stomach needs acid to protect itself. So eat more fresh, organic, seasonal vegetables and fruits. Have a teaspoon of raw apple cider in a glass of water before each meal or eat a teaspoon of dry chia seeds to absorb the acid.