Medication for reflux
Medication can be beneficial in treating the symptoms, but not the cause, of acid reflux.
Treating acid reflux with medication can be effective for those suffering from various levels of acid reflux; however, many medications require regular use to prevent a relapse in symptoms. Typical treatment methods include the use of antacids to neutralize stomach acid, medications that reduce acid production, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) that block acid production.
Medications that reduce or block stomach acid provide longer-lasting relief but may also require increasing doses for the same level of relief. Additionally, like many strong medications, PPIs have been shown to have side effects. Some studies have suggested that PPIs may contribute to osteoporosis, vitamin B12 deficiency, PPI-associate pneumonia, and an increased susceptibility to dangerous bacterium in the stomach. In cases where medication is not effective, further measures like surgery may be recommended.