Guide To The Best Heartburn Medications

Famotidine

Famotidine is a histamine H2-receptor antagonist. It reduces the amount of stomach acid that the body makes. Individuals often need a prescription for this medication. However, it is also available as an over-the-counter medicine. Certain individuals are unable to take this medication. This includes individuals who are allergic to similar medications, such as cimetidine and ranitidine. Individuals with stomach cancer, long QT syndrome, liver disease, or kidney disease should ask their doctor before taking this medication. In addition, patients are encouraged to avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medicine. The reason is that alcohol increases the risk of stomach damage during treatment with famotidine.

Unless directed by a doctor, individuals should not take other medicines that reduce stomach acid while they are using this one. Side effects of this medication include dizziness, diarrhea, headaches, and constipation. Older adults and individuals with kidney disease are at an increased risk of experiencing side effects from this medicine. Patients should stop taking this drug if they have a fast heart rate, seizures, confusion, dark urine, or unexplained muscle soreness during treatment. If these symptoms occur, patients should call their doctor right away.

Omeprazole

As a proton pump inhibitor, omeprazole works by decreasing the body's production of stomach acid. However, individuals with liver disease, nausea, vomiting, osteoporosis, low magnesium, or unexplained weight loss should check with their doctor before taking this medication. When omeprazole is used on a long-term basis, it can increase the likelihood of hip, wrist, and spinal fractures. This medicine may also cause kidney issues. Thus, patients should inform their doctor if they have blood in their urine or urinate less frequently than usual.

Occasionally, this medicine may cause new or worsening symptoms associated with lupus. Patients should check with their doctor if they notice joint pain or a rash on their arms or cheeks that worsens in the sun. Some individuals may develop cold symptoms, stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting while taking this medication. It is also vital for patients to review their current medications with a doctor before adding this one. The reason is that this medicine interacts with several others. Examples include digoxin, St. John's wort, diuretics, clopidogrel, and certain antibiotics.