When your chest burns after eating, OTC heartburn meds, over-the-counter drugs designed to reduce stomach acid and relieve burning sensations. Also known as acid reflux treatments, they’re the first line of defense for millions who get heartburn after spicy meals, coffee, or late-night snacks. But not all of them are created equal—and using the wrong one, or using it too long, can do more harm than good.
There are three main types: antacids, fast-acting compounds like Tums or Rolaids that neutralize acid right away, H2 blockers, medications like famotidine (Pepcid) that reduce acid production over several hours, and PPIs, proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole (Prilosec) that shut down acid production at the source for longer relief. Antacids give quick relief but don’t last. H2 blockers work slower but last longer. PPIs take a day or two to kick in but are the strongest option for daily use. The problem? PPIs are often taken for months or years without a doctor’s oversight, and long-term use has been linked to kidney issues, bone loss, and nutrient deficiencies. The FDA warns against using PPIs for more than 14 days without consulting a provider—yet most people don’t know that.
What most people don’t realize is that heartburn isn’t always caused by too much acid. Sometimes it’s caused by weak muscles at the bottom of the esophagus, letting acid creep up. That’s why lifestyle changes—eating smaller meals, avoiding lying down after eating, cutting out alcohol and chocolate—often work better than pills. And if you’re taking other meds like NSAIDs, blood pressure drugs, or antidepressants, those can make heartburn worse. You might think you’re treating the burn, but you’re actually masking a side effect from something else.
This collection of articles doesn’t just list pills. It shows you what to watch for when you reach for that bottle. You’ll find real-world advice on how to tell if your heartburn is something more serious, how to avoid dangerous interactions with other drugs, and when to stop self-treating and see a doctor. Some posts dive into how acid reflux meds can interfere with nutrient absorption, how they’re linked to gut bacteria changes, and why rebound heartburn happens after you quit PPIs cold turkey. Others explain how to read labels so you don’t accidentally double up on the same active ingredient across different products. There’s no guesswork here—just clear, tested facts from people who’ve seen what happens when people rely on OTC meds without knowing the rules.
