The Best Heartburn Medicine to Use for Acid Reflux

Heartburn and acid reflux are incredibly common, and they can range from mildly annoying to seriously disruptive. Whether it hits you after a heavy meal or sneaks up at night when you’re lying down, the burning discomfort can ruin your day — or your sleep.

Luckily, there are several over-the-counter (OTC) options to help manage it. But with so many medications (and opinions) out there, it can be hard to figure out what actually works for you.

This guide is here to make things simpler. We’ll walk you through:

• What causes acid reflux
• The different types of heartburn medicine
• When to use each one
• Natural remedies
• Lifestyle tweaks
• When it’s time to see a doctor

By the end of this, you’ll feel more in control — and know exactly what to try next.

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows backward into your esophagus (the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach). That acid is supposed to stay down in your stomach, but when the valve (called the lower esophageal sphincter) weakens or relaxes too much, acid can sneak back up—and burn.

Common causes or triggers include:

• Eating large or greasy meals
• Lying down too soon after eating
• Spicy, acidic, or fried foods
• Coffee, alcohol, or fizzy drinks
• Smoking
• Stress or anxiety
• Being overweight
• Pregnancy (blame the hormones and pressure!)

It’s different for everyone, but if you know your triggers, you’re halfway to managing it.

Types of Over-the-Counter Heartburn Medicines

There are three main types of OTC meds for heartburn. Each works a little differently, so let’s break it down.

Antacids

This acid reflux medicine works fast to neutralize stomach acid. They don’t stop your body from making acid — they just make what’s already there less irritating.

Best for: Quick relief when you feel that burn coming on.

Pros:

• Works in minutes
• Great for occasional symptoms

Cons:

• Wears off quickly
• Doesn’t treat long-term issues

Common brands: TUMS, Rolaids, Mylanta, Gaviscon

H2 Blockers

These reduce how much acid your stomach makes. They don’t work as fast as antacids, but they last longer.

Best for: Mild to moderate heartburn, especially before meals or at night.

Pros:

• Lasts longer than antacids (up to 12 hours)
• Can prevent heartburn if taken ahead of time

Cons:

• Can take 30–60 minutes to start working
• Not as strong as PPIs for frequent symptoms

Common brands: Pepcid AC (famotidine), Tagamet HB (cimetidine)

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

These block the pumps in your stomach that produce acid — so they’re stronger and longer-lasting than H2 blockers.

Best for: Frequent heartburn (2+ times a week), GERD, or when other meds haven’t helped.

Pros:

• Powerful and long-lasting relief
• Can heal irritation in the esophagus over time

Cons:

• Takes a few days to fully kick in
• Not for quick relief
• Not meant for long-term use without a doctor’s guidance

Common brands: Prilosec OTC (omeprazole), Nexium 24HR (esomeprazole), Prevacid (lansoprazole)

When to Use Each Type of Acid Reflux Medicine

It’s not one-size-fits-all. Here’s when each type is usually your best bet:

• Antacids: For that occasional spicy dinner that didn’t sit well.
• H2 Blockers: When you have predictable triggers (like bedtime heartburn) and want something preventative.
• PPIs: If heartburn is a regular part of your life and nothing else is cutting it.

💡 Tip: Always read the labels. If you’re using meds for more than 14 days, it’s time to check in with a doctor.

Lifestyle Tips for Managing Acid Reflux

No matter what medicine you take, a few everyday habits can make a big difference. Try these out:

• Eat smaller meals: Big meals stretch your stomach and increase pressure.
• Avoid trigger foods: Spicy, fatty, fried, acidic, or carbonated.
• Don’t lie down right after eating: Give it 2–3 hours.
• Sleep with your head raised: Use an extra pillow or lift the head of your bed.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol: Especially in the evening.
• Lose a little weight if needed: Even small changes help.
• Quit smoking: We’ve got a great guide on quitting smoking to help you!

These may sound simple, but many people see big improvements just by changing a few of these habits.

Natural & Alternative Remedies

Not into getting acid reflux medicine right away? Some people prefer a more natural route. While results vary, these can be worth trying:

• Ginger tea: Soothes the stomach.
• Chamomile tea: Helps reduce inflammation and calm stress.
• Aloe vera juice: Can cool the burn (make sure it’s the kind safe for drinking).
• Licorice root (DGL): May help protect the stomach lining.
• Apple cider vinegar: Some find that a teaspoon diluted in water helps, but use with caution.

⚠️ Always talk to your doctor before adding supplements or herbs — especially if you’re taking other meds.

You can also check out our guide to natural ways to stop indigestion if you need more info!

When to See a Doctor

It’s time to get medical help if:

• You have heartburn more than twice a week
• OTC acid reflux medicine doesn’t help — or stops helping
• You’re experiencing chest pain, trouble swallowing, or vomiting
• You have a chronic cough or hoarseness
• You’re losing weight without trying

Heartburn is common — but it shouldn’t control your life. And sometimes, it’s a sign of something more serious (like GERD, ulcers, or even heart problems).

Related read: 10 signs it’s time to see a cardiologist about your heart health. 

Recap

Let’s wrap it up with the basics:

• Antacids work fast for occasional heartburn.
• H2 blockers are great for longer-lasting relief.
• PPIs are best for frequent or chronic acid reflux.
• Lifestyle changes can make a huge difference.
• Natural remedies may help — but check with a doctor first.

Heartburn doesn’t have to be something you just “deal with.” With the right approach, you can keep it under control.

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