This leaflet contains important information regarding a group of medicines. This leaflet is not a substitute of discussing the condition and medicines with the doctor.
All medicines have benefits and risks. Doctors prescribe medicines by weighing the risks and the expected benefits of the medicine. Patients are advised to follow the instructions of their doctor and pharmacist regarding the use of medicines.
This guide can be used to discuss with doctor or pharmacist regarding how to use cholesterol medications to control cholesterol.
If you have any concerns about taking this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
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What is Acid reflux disease?
Acid reflux disease or Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition in which acid from stomach splashes back into the esophagus. The return of acid from stomach causes irritation to the inner wall of esophagus causing a feeling of burning in the chest and throat. (see details: Acid reflux disease)
Naturally, stomach produces acid to help in the digestion of the food. In normal persons, the acid produced in the stomach should not return back to esophagus. The inner layer of the stomach is naturally resistant to tolerate the effects of the acid. However, other parts of the digestive system are not protected to tolerate the acid produced by stomach.
Acid reflux causes heartburn, severe discomfort and difficulty in swallowing. Acid reflux symptoms disrupts daily routine, patients prefer to be symptom free as soon as possible due to severe discomfort.
Chemical Name | Brand Name (Trade Name) | How does it work? | How this medicine should be taken? |
Antacids | |||
Aluminum Hydroxide | Actal, Filmacid-Forte, Remosil | These medicines neutralize the acid present in stomach | Available in capsule, gel and powder form, take as per doctor/ pharmacist instructions and prescription information |
Calcium carbonate | Calcidin, | ||
Magnesium carbonate | Theragran-H | ||
Sodium Bicarbonate | Zegerid, Omega rapid | ||
Histamine Receptor Blockers | |||
Cimetidine | Tagamet, Altramet | They reduce the production of acid in stomach | Available in tablet, capsule, injection and powder form, take as per doctor/ pharmacist instructions and prescription information |
Ranitidine | Zantac, Tritec | ||
Famotidine | Ducid, Fluxid | ||
Nizatidine | Simko | ||
Proton Pump Inhibitors | |||
Esomeprazole | Zopril, Nexium | These medicines are acid resistant enteric coated, they reduce the production of acid in stomach | Available in tablet, capsule, injection and powder form, take as per doctor/ pharmacist instructions and prescription information |
Lansoprazole | Lanso, Prevacid, Zoton | ||
Omeprazole | Anzo, Risek, | ||
Pantoprazole | Protonix | ||
Rabeprazole | Novipraz, Promto |
Medicines | Side effects |
Antacid | Alternate diarrhea and constipation |
Histamine Receptor Blockers | Nausea and vomiting |
Digestive problems, constipation, stomach pain | |
Muscles ache | |
Dizziness | |
Proton Pump Inhibitors | Increase risk of fractures |
Decrease vitamin B12 | |
Headache | |
Diarrhea |
Warnings and Precautions
Patient should inform the doctor about any other illness or medicines that he/she may be taking. Some medicines do not work well or cause serious side effects when given with other medicines. It is better for the patient to bring all the medicines currently taking to show them to the doctor.
Why is it important to take this medication regularly as prescribed?
Patients are usually required to take these medications until symptoms are resolve. They should not stop taking these medication unless the doctor advises to do so.
Usually taken after meal and make sure medications are taken as prescribed as skipped doses lengthen the period of treatment involving further side effects. Patient should discuss with their doctor in case of any side effects or dose adjustment required.
What should I do if I forget to take this medication?
Take the prescribed dose as soon as you remember there should be adequate interval between doses. Do not take extra dose as it reduces acid secretion to a level where food is not properly digested.
How to store these medications?
Keep the medicine in the original package with product leaflet and patient information. Store in dry place at room temperature. Keep it away from the reach of children.