What are the uses of Rolaids for acid reflux. How should you take Rolaids for optimal results. What are the potential side effects of Rolaids. How does Rolaids interact with other medications. What precautions should you take when using Rolaids.

Understanding Rolaids: A Comprehensive Guide to Calcium Carbonate Antacids

Rolaids, a popular over-the-counter medication, contains calcium carbonate as its active ingredient. This antacid is widely used to alleviate symptoms caused by excess stomach acid, such as heartburn, upset stomach, and indigestion. By lowering the amount of acid in the stomach, Rolaids provides relief from these common digestive issues.

Is Rolaids suitable for everyone? While it’s generally safe for most people, it’s crucial to check the ingredients on the label before use, as manufacturers may change formulations. Additionally, similar-sounding products may contain different ingredients intended for various purposes, so careful selection is essential to avoid potential harm.

Proper Usage and Dosage of Rolaids for Optimal Results

To maximize the benefits of Rolaids, it’s important to follow the proper usage guidelines:

• For chewable tablets: Chew the medication thoroughly before swallowing
• For liquid formulations: Shake the bottle well before each dose
• Always adhere to the directions on the product package
• Never exceed the maximum recommended dose stated on the package

How long can you safely use Rolaids? It’s advisable not to take the maximum dose for more than two weeks without consulting a doctor. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice promptly.

Special Considerations for Rolaids Usage

Are there situations where caution is needed when using Rolaids? Yes, certain health conditions may require special consideration:

• High calcium levels (hypercalcemia)
• Stomach or intestinal blockage
• Kidney disease, including kidney stones
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any of these conditions before using Rolaids.

Potential Side Effects and Risks Associated with Rolaids

While Rolaids is generally well-tolerated, some users may experience side effects. Common mild side effects include:

• Constipation
• Gas
• Burping

These effects are usually temporary, but if they persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

Can Rolaids cause more serious side effects? In rare cases, some individuals may experience more severe reactions, including:

• Loss of appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Unusual weight loss
• Bone or muscle pain
• Mental or mood changes
• Headache
• Increased thirst or urination
• Unusual weakness or tiredness
• Signs of kidney problems

If you experience any of these serious side effects, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately.

Drug Interactions: Understanding How Rolaids Affects Other Medications

Rolaids can interact with various medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Some notable interactions include:

• Digoxin
• Certain phosphate binders
• Phosphate supplements
• Sodium polystyrene sulfonate

How does Rolaids affect the absorption of other drugs? Calcium carbonate can decrease the absorption of certain medications, including:

• Tetracycline antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline)
• Bisphosphonates (e.g., alendronate)
• Estramustine
• Iron supplements
• Levothyroxine
• Pazopanib
• Strontium
• Quinolone antibiotics (e.g., ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin)

To minimize these interactions, it’s important to space out the doses of these medications from your Rolaids doses. Consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist to determine the optimal dosing schedule for your specific medication regimen.

Precautions and Special Considerations When Using Rolaids

Before using Rolaids, it’s essential to be aware of certain precautions:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies, especially to calcium carbonate or other ingredients in the product.
• Inactive ingredients: Some Rolaids formulations may contain milk or dairy products, which can cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
• Phenylketonuria (PKU): Certain products may contain aspartame, which should be avoided by individuals with PKU.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Consult a healthcare provider before using Rolaids during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Why is it important to maintain a list of all medications and supplements you’re taking? Keeping a comprehensive list of all products you use, including prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as herbal supplements, helps healthcare providers identify potential interactions and ensure your safety.

Maximizing the Benefits of Rolaids: Tips for Effective Use

To get the most out of your Rolaids treatment, consider the following tips:

1. Take Rolaids as directed, typically at the onset of symptoms or as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
2. Avoid lying down immediately after taking Rolaids, as this can increase the risk of acid reflux.
3. Consider lifestyle modifications to complement Rolaids use, such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and maintaining a healthy weight.
4. Stay hydrated, as proper hydration can help alleviate digestive discomfort.
5. Monitor your symptoms and consult a healthcare provider if they persist or worsen despite Rolaids use.

Are there alternative treatments for acid reflux besides Rolaids? While Rolaids can be effective for many individuals, some may benefit from other antacids, H2 blockers, or proton pump inhibitors. Discussing your specific symptoms and medical history with a healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate treatment option for you.

Rolaids (Calcium Carbonate) Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

This medication is used to treat symptoms caused by too much stomach acid such as heartburn, upset stomach, or indigestion. It is an antacid that works by lowering the amount of acid in the stomach.Check the ingredients on the label even if you have used the product before. The manufacturer may have changed the ingredients. Also, products with similar names may contain different ingredients meant for different purposes. Taking the wrong product could harm you.

How to use Rolaids (Calcium Carbonate) Tablet, Chewable

Take this product by mouth as directed. For the chewable form, chew the medication well before swallowing. For the liquid form, shake the bottle well before each dose. Follow all directions on the product package. Do not take more than the maximum recommended dose stated on the product package. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse. Do not take the maximum dose of the medication for more than 2 weeks unless directed by your doctor. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Side Effects

Constipation, gas, and burping may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: loss of appetite, nausea/vomiting, unusual weight loss, bone/muscle pain, mental/mood changes (such as confusion), headache, increased thirst/urination, unusual weakness/tiredness, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine).

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking calcium carbonate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as milk or dairy products found in some brands), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this medication: high calcium levels (hypercalcemia), stomach/intestinal blockage, kidney disease (such as kidney stones).

Some products may contain aspartame. If you have phenylketonuria (PKU) or any other condition that requires you to restrict your intake of aspartame (or phenylalanine), consult your doctor or pharmacist about using this drug safely.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication.

This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug include: digoxin, certain phosphate binders (such as calcium acetate), phosphate supplements (such as potassium phosphate), sodium polystyrene sulfonate.

Calcium carbonate can decrease the absorption of other drugs. Some examples of affected drugs include tetracycline antibiotics (such as doxycycline, minocycline), bisphosphonates (such as alendronate), estramustine, iron, levothyroxine, pazopanib, strontium, quinolone antibiotics (such as ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin), among others. Separate your doses of these medications as far as possible from your doses of calcium carbonate. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about how long you should wait between doses and for help finding a dosing schedule that will work with all your medications.

Check the labels on all your prescription and nonprescription/herbal products (such as supplements, vitamins) because they may contain calcium. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.

Does Rolaids (Calcium Carbonate) Tablet, Chewable interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, mental/mood changes, headache, weakness, dizziness.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

Lifestyle changes such as stress reduction programs, stopping smoking, limiting alcohol, and diet changes (such as avoiding caffeine/certain spices) may help to reduce heartburn and other stomach acid problems. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes that might benefit you.

Not applicable.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

SYMPTOMS AND TRIGGERS OF ACID INDIGESTION

HERE’S WHAT “ACID INDIGESTION” MEANS

When excess stomach acid leaks into your esophagus, it can cause the burning and pain that leads to heartburn.

Acid indigestion is a general term that covers a wide range of digestive issues. Acid indigestion or acid reflux occurs when too much stomach acid flows backwards into the esophagus. Heartburn is a symptom of acid indigestion.

THESE ARE SOME SYMPTOMS OF ACID INDIGESTION

    Bloating

    Nausea

    Queasiness

    Feeling uncomfortable fullness

Sometimes acid indigestion can be the sign of a more serious condition. Speak to your healthcare professional if you experience:

    Frequent vomiting

    Blood in vomit

    Weight loss or loss of appetite

    Black stools

    Difficult or painful swallowing

    Shortness of breath, sweating, or pain that radiates from the jaw, neck, or arm

    Symptoms that persist for more than two weeks

SOME OF THE THINGS THAT CAN TRIGGER ACID INDIGESTION

Your favorite foods may never cause a problem. But sometimes you can eat too much of a good thing. So your stomach has to produce extra acid to digest all that food, and the result can be uncomfortable acid indigestion.

But there are lots of common foods and beverages that can trigger acid indigestion even if you don’t consume that much. And there are lifestyle habits that can cause it too.

Tips for avoiding acid indigestion

Rolaids® helps keep your lifestyle from ruining your lifestyle. But you can make smart decisions that can help avoid acid indigestion in the first place.

Here are a few suggestions:

Food triggers

• Try to limit the foods and beverages that worsen symptoms
   
• Eat less fatty, spicy food
   
• Eat less fried, greasy food
   
• Drink less coffee
   
• Drink fewer carbonated drinks

Medication triggers^*

• Be aware about prescription medication that can cause acid indigestion. Speak to your healthcare professional about other options.

Lifestyle triggers

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals, so your stomach doesn’t get too full.
   
• Wear loose-fitting clothes. Tight jeans may look great, but they’re tough on a full stomach.
   
• Avoid stressful situations, especially right after eating.
   
• Get plenty of rest. It will reduce the stress and fatigue that can make indigestion worse.
   
• Avoid smoking cigarettes.
   
• Avoid drinking alcohol.
   
• Be aware of your weight. Excess weight can make symptoms worse. So if you are overweight, consider talking to your healthcare provider about a safe weight loss program.

ROLAIDS

^® IS HERE TO HELP

Fortunately, the two active ingredients in Rolaids® — calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide — deliver effective, rapid relief for your heartburn, sour stomach, acid indigestion and upset stomach associated with these symptoms.

Find the right Rolaids® for you.

^*Ask a doctor or a pharmacist before use if you are now taking a prescription drug. Antacids may interact with certain prescription drugs.

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Laryngopharyngeal reflux symptoms and treatment

Treatment of the disease laryngopharyngeal reflux is engaged in
otorhinolaryngologist,

gastroenterologist

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is the reflux of gastric contents (acid and enzymes such as pepsin) into the larynx, resulting in hoarseness, a sensation of a lump in the throat, difficulty swallowing, coughing, and a feeling of mucus in the hypopharynx.

Reflux as the cause of the above symptoms without gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is constantly questioned. Guidelines issued by specialized societies in the field of laryngology and gastroenterology represent different points of view. Both groups acknowledge that the interpretation of existing studies is difficult due to the uncertain diagnostic criteria for LPR, varying response rates to treatment, and the significant placebo effect of the current treatment.

Relatively limited data are available on the prevalence of LPR: approximately 30% of healthy individuals may have episodes of reflux on 24-hour pH measurements or characteristic changes in the larynx.

LPR may directly or indirectly cause laryngeal symptoms. The direct mechanism includes irritation of the mucous membrane of the larynx with caustic substances – refluxes (acid, pepsin). An indirect mechanism involves irritation of the esophagus, leading to laryngeal reflexes and symptoms.

Helicobacter pylori infection may also contribute. The prevalence of H. pylori among patients with LPR is about 44%.

Laryngofangeal reflux and GERD

Although gastric acid is common to both LPR and GERD, there are many differences that make LPR a distinct clinical entity.

• A prerequisite for GERD is heartburn, which is reliably observed only in 40% of patients with LPR.
• Most patients with GERD have evidence of esophagitis on biopsy, while patients with LPR only in 25% of cases.
• GERD is thought to be a lower esophageal sphincter problem and occurs primarily in the supine position. In contrast, LPR is seen primarily as an upper esophageal sphincter problem, and occurs primarily in the upright position during exercise.
• LPR requires much less acid exposure than GERD.

There are significant differences between the mucous membrane of the esophagus and the larynx.

• The upper limit of normal for acid reflux into the esophagus is up to 50 episodes per day, while 4 episodes of reflux into the larynx is no longer a normal option.
• In the larynx, unlike the esophagus, which eliminates acid during peristalsis, reflux remains much longer, causing additional irritation.
• The epithelium of the larynx is thin and poorly adapted to combat caustic chemical damage from the same pepsin and acid.

Symptoms of laryngopharyngeal reflux

• Dysphonia or hoarseness;
• cough;
• lump in throat;
• discomfort and feeling of mucus in the throat;
• dysphagia (swallowing disorder).

Some researchers believe that chronic irritation of the larynx may lead to the development of carcinoma in patients who do not drink alcohol or smoke, although there is no evidence to support this.

Symptoms characteristic of LPR may also be due to the following conditions:

• postnasal syndrome;
• allergic rhinitis;
• vasomotor rhinitis;
• upper respiratory infections;
• habitual cough;
• use of tobacco or alcohol;
• excessive use of the voice;
• change in temperature or climate;
• emotional problems;
• environmental irritants;
• vagus neuropathy.

Diagnosis

There is considerable controversy regarding the appropriate method for diagnosing LPR.

Most patients are diagnosed clinically based on symptoms associated with LPR.

During laryngoscopy (examination of the larynx), swelling and hyperemia (redness) of varying degrees are noted. However, the relatively weak correlation between symptoms and endoscopic findings is an argument against the use of endoscopic diagnostic methods.

The Reflux Signs Score and the Reflux Symptoms Index are well suited for both diagnosis and monitoring of response to therapy.

Daily Ph-metry with a dual sensor probe, despite excellent sensitivity and specificity, is questioned because the results of this diagnostic method often do not correlate with the severity of symptoms.

Another diagnostic option may be empiric PPI therapy.

Treatment of laryngopharyngeal reflux

Lifestyle modification and diet are the main approach in the treatment of LPR and GERD. The role of drug therapy is more controversial. Whether asymptomatic patients with incidental signs of LPR require treatment is unknown. There are theoretical concerns that LPR may increase the risk of malignancy, but this has not yet been proven. In any case, patients with asymptomatic LPR are advised to follow a diet.

Patients are advised to stop smoking, alcohol, foods and drinks containing caffeine, chocolate, mint. Prohibited foods also include most fruits (especially citrus fruits), tomatoes, jams and jellies, barbecue sauces and most salad dressings, and spicy foods. Small meals are recommended.

Exercise should be avoided for at least two hours after meals, and food and drink should be avoided three hours before bedtime.

Drug therapy usually includes proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), h3 blockers, and antacids. PPIs are recommended for six months for most LPR patients. This figure is based on the results of endoscopic studies (this is the time needed to reduce laryngeal edema), as well as a high percentage of relapse in the case of a three-month course of therapy. Termination of therapy should be carried out gradually.

If PPIs and H2 blockers have failed, treatment with tricyclic antidepressants, gabapentin, and pregabalin should be considered, as laryngeal hypersensitivity is one possible mechanism for reflux.

How is laryngopharyngeal reflux treated at Rassvet Clinic?

All patients with complaints of hoarseness, feeling of a lump in the throat, difficulty swallowing, coughing, feeling of mucus in the laryngopharynx are examined by an otorhinolaryngologist and a gastroenterologist.

An endoscopic examination of the nasal cavity, nasopharynx, and larynx is performed to exclude other diseases that, in addition to LPR, can provoke these symptoms. The gastroenterologist also prescribes the entire range of necessary examinations, including the elimination of H. Pylori infection.

The key to successful therapy is the joint management of the patient by an otorhinolaryngologist, a gastroenterologist, in some cases a psychiatrist and a psychotherapist.

Author:

Chekaldina Elena Vladimirovna
otorhinolaryngologist, Ph.D.

Publication date: February 5, 2021

Update date: August 9, 2022

Treatment and prevention of gastroesophageal reflux disease

Treatment and prevention of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GE) Republic of Belarus)

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is common, but is rarely detected and therefore untreated or self-treated and incorrectly treated, which is undesirable as GERD usually responds well to treatment.

GERD is treated gradually. The doctor will help you choose the right course of treatment. If the disease is mild, it will be enough for the patient to follow a certain diet, give up certain activities, and sometimes take over-the-counter medications.

In cases where symptoms are more persistent (daily heartburn, symptoms that come on at night), prescription medication may be required. Surgery is a reasonable alternative to permanent medication, especially if the disease is acquired at an early age.

Surgery is also recommended if medication does not help. However, today there is a new generation of drugs that can effectively control gastroesophageal reflux.

If symptoms are still uncomfortable after taking strong drugs, GERD is most likely not the cause. Most gastroenterologists and surgeons do not recommend surgery in such cases, since the symptoms still continue to disturb after it.

Lifestyle changes

Gastroesophageal reflux treatment begins with lifestyle changes. First you need to understand what affects the occurrence of symptoms.

If you have symptoms of GERD, use the following tips:

• Avoid foods and drinks that stimulate the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, such as foods flavored with mint, chocolate, and alcohol.

• Lose weight if you are overweight. Being overweight and obese contributes to GERD because being overweight increases pressure on the stomach and lower esophageal sphincter, causing acidic stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus and irritate the esophageal mucosa.

• Do not lie down for at least two or three hours after eating. After eating it is good to take a walk. This not only prevents the onset of GERD symptoms, but also burns extra calories.

• Avoid foods that trigger GERD symptoms. Do not eat fatty or fried foods, creamy sauces, mayonnaise or ice cream. Other foods that may exacerbate symptoms include coffee, tea, sodas, tomatoes, and citrus fruits.

• Stop smoking. Smoking disrupts the digestive system and, according to some studies, relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter. Smoking also reduces the amount of bicarbonate in saliva and reduces its ability to protect the esophagus from stomach acid. Some types of nicotine replacement therapy (nicotine patch, nicotine gum) can cause indigestion, stomach pain, and vomiting. Talk to your doctor about possible side effects of these products before use.

• Avoid clothing that puts pressure on your belly, such as tight belts, tight jeans, and elastic waistbands that put pressure on your stomach and lower esophageal sphincter.

• Raise the head of the bed 15-20 cm or use a wedge-shaped pillow to force acid into the stomach by gravity.

• Don’t bend over after eating. If you need to pick something up from the floor, it’s better to squat on half-bent knees and try not to bend at the waist. Do not engage in sports and physical labor after eating.

• Check your medications. Some medications can make symptoms worse. These drugs include theophylline, calcium channel blockers, alpha and beta blockers, anticholinergics that may be present in drugs used to treat Parkinson’s disease, asthma, and some over-the-counter cold and cough medicines. If you think a drug you are taking is affecting your symptoms, talk to your doctor about alternatives. Do not interrupt the prescribed treatment without consulting a doctor.

Medication for gastroesophageal reflux

Your doctor may prescribe medication for GERD. Because GERD is often a chronic condition, you will need to take medication for the rest of your life. In some cases, long-term treatment is not required.

Be patient, it takes time to find the right drug and dosage. If the symptoms do not go away even after taking the drugs, or if they reappear immediately after completing the course, consult your doctor. If GERD symptoms appear during pregnancy, contact your obstetrician before starting medication.

The following is information about drugs commonly prescribed to treat GERD:

Over-the-counter antacids and rare symptoms. Their action is to neutralize the acidic gastric juice. Antacids are usually fast-acting and can be taken as needed. Because they do not last long, they do not prevent heartburn and are less effective for symptoms that often occur.

Most antacids contain calcium carbonate (Maalox) or magnesium hydroxide. Sodium bicarbonate, or baking soda, helps with heartburn and indigestion. It should be mixed with at least 120 ml of water and taken one to two hours after meals so as not to overload a full stomach. Talk to your doctor about the need for this treatment. Do not use this method for more than two weeks and use it only in extreme cases, since soda can lead to metabolic disorders (pH) and the formation of erosions in the esophagus and stomach. Before using it on children under 12 years of age, consult a doctor.

Another type of antacid contains alginate or alginic acid (eg Gaviscon). The advantage of such an antacid is that it does not allow fluid to seep back into the esophagus.

Antacids can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb other drugs, so if you are taking other drugs, check with your doctor before taking antacids.

Ideally, you should take antacids at least 2-4 hours after taking other drugs to minimize the chance of them not being absorbed. People with high blood pressure should avoid taking high sodium antacids (Gaviscon).

Finally, antacids are not a reliable treatment for erosive esophagitis, a disease that must be treated with other drugs.

Hydrochloric Acid Suppressants

These drugs reduce the amount of acid produced in the stomach and are available with or without a prescription. Usually, the same drugs are dispensed on prescription, but in a larger dosage. They may help those who are not helped by antacids. Most patients get better if they take drugs that suppress the production of hydrochloric acid and make lifestyle changes.

According to the mechanism of action, two groups of such drugs are distinguished:

– H blockers 2 – Proton pump inhibitors

Most likely, the doctor recommends taking the drug for several weeks at first in a standard dose, and then if it is not possible to achieve the desired effect, prescribe a drug with a higher dosage.

Traditional h3 blockers include:

– nizatidine (Axid AR Axid AR)

– famotidine (Pepcid AS Pepcid AC)

– cimetidine (Tagamet HB Tagamet HB)

– wounds idine (“Zantac 75” Zantac 75)

Pepcid Complete is a combination of famotidine, calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide found in antacids.

Conventional proton pump inhibitors include:

– lansoprazole (Prevacid)

– omeprazole (Prilosec, Prilosec)

– rabeprazole (AcipHex, AcipHex, Pariet)

– pantoprazole (Protonix Protonix, Nolpaza Nolpaza)

– esomeprazole angry (“Nexium” , Nexium)

– omeprazole + sodium bicarbonate (Zegeride)

– dexlansoprazole (Dexilant)

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) also reduce acidity, but are more powerful than h3 – blockers. Proton pump inhibitors are most commonly prescribed to treat heartburn and acid reflux.

These drugs block the secretion of acid from the cells of the gastric mucosa and significantly reduce the amount of stomach acid. They don’t work as fast as antacids, but they can relieve reflux symptoms for hours.

PPIs are also used to treat inflammation of the esophagus (esophagitis) and erosions of the esophagus. Studies have shown that the majority of patients with esophagitis who took these drugs recovered after 6-8 weeks. It is likely that your doctor will re-evaluate your health after 8 weeks of taking proton pump inhibitors and, according to the results, reduce the dosage or stop treatment. If symptoms do not return within three months, you will only need to take medication occasionally. People with liver disease should consult their doctor before taking these drugs.

Prokinetics

Prokinetics, e.g. They also increase the contractions of the esophagus and stomach to some extent, so that the stomach is emptied more quickly. These drugs may be used as an adjunctive treatment for people with GERD.

GERD surgery

Surgery is an alternative to conservative treatment of GERD. Surgery is most commonly performed on young patients (because they would otherwise require long-term treatment) with typical GERD symptoms (heartburn and belching) who are helped by medication but are looking for an alternative to daily medication.

Patients with atypical symptoms or patients who are not responding to medical treatment should undergo surgery only when there is no doubt about the diagnosis of GERD and the relationship between symptoms and reflux is confirmed by research results.

Fundoplication is used in most cases. During this operation, the upper part of the stomach is wrapped around the lower esophageal sphincter, which increases its tone. These days, minimally invasive (laparoscopic) techniques are commonly used instead of traditional “open” surgery. One of the benefits of a fundoplication is that the hiatal hernia can also be repaired during the operation.

Surgery is not always effective and some patients still need to take medication after surgery. The results of this surgery are usually positive, but complications can still occur, such as difficulty swallowing, bloating and gas, difficult recovery after surgery, and diarrhea that occurs due to damage to the nerve endings that are adjacent to the stomach and intestines.

Prevention of GERD

First of all, you need to pay attention to lifestyle and avoid situations that can trigger the onset of the disease.

Remember that GERD happens when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, which connects the throat to the stomach.

To keep the lower esophageal sphincter functioning properly, follow these guidelines:

Avoid bending over and other physical exercises that increase pressure on the abdominal cavity. Don’t exercise on a full stomach.

Do not wear clothes that are tight around the waist, such as elastic waistbands and belts, which can increase pressure on the stomach.

Do not lie down in the field of food. If you lie on your back after a large meal, it will be easier for the contents of the stomach to pass into the esophagus. For a similar reason, don’t eat before bed. The head of the bed should rise 15-20cm so that gravity keeps the acid in the stomach where it should be while you sleep.

Do not overeat. Due to the fact that there is a large amount of food in the stomach, pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter increases, as a result of which it opens.

To keep your lower esophageal sphincter and esophagus functioning properly, follow these tips:

Quit smoking and avoid products containing tobacco. Smoking relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, reduces the amount of acid-neutralizing saliva in the mouth and throat, and damages the esophagus.

Avoid foods that aggravate symptoms, such as tomato sauces, mints, citrus fruits, onions, coffee, fried foods, and carbonated drinks.

Do not drink alcoholic beverages. Alcohol causes the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, and the esophagus may begin to contract unevenly, causing acid to reflux into the esophagus and cause heartburn.

Check your medications. Some medications can make symptoms worse. Do not interrupt the prescribed treatment without consulting your doctor. Drugs that have this effect include asthma and emphysema drugs (such as theophylline), anticholinergics for Parkinson’s disease and asthma, sometimes found in over-the-counter drugs, some calcium channel blockers, alpha blockers, and beta-blockers to treat heart disease or high blood pressure, some drugs that affect the nervous system, iron supplements.

While some drugs exacerbate GERD symptoms, others can cause drug-induced esophagitis, a condition that causes the same symptoms as GERD but is not due to reflux. Drug esophagitis happens when a pill is swallowed but does not reach the stomach because it sticks to the wall of the esophagus. Because of this, the mucous membrane of the esophagus is corroded, chest pain, esophageal ulcers and pain during swallowing occur.