Acid Reflux Medication: What Works, What Doesn't, and What to Try Next

When your chest burns after eating, or you wake up with a sour taste in your mouth, you’re likely dealing with acid reflux medication, a category of drugs designed to reduce stomach acid and relieve symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Also known as GERD treatment, these medications don’t just mask discomfort—they help prevent long-term damage to your esophagus. It’s not one-size-fits-all. Some people get relief with a simple antacid, while others need stronger, daily prescriptions. The right choice depends on how often it happens, how bad it is, and what else is going on in your body.

There are three main types of acid reflux medication, drugs that target stomach acid production or neutralize it. Also known as GERD treatment, these fall into three buckets: antacids, fast-acting, over-the-counter options like Tums or Rolaids that neutralize acid right away; H2 blockers, medications like famotidine or ranitidine that reduce acid production over several hours; and proton pump inhibitors, stronger drugs like omeprazole or esomeprazole that shut down acid production at the source. Each has pros, cons, and risks if used long-term. Antacids are quick but short-lived. H2 blockers last longer but lose effectiveness over time. PPIs are powerful but can affect nutrient absorption and increase infection risk if taken for years without oversight.

What you’ll find in the posts below isn’t just a list of brand names. It’s a real-world breakdown of what works for whom, what side effects actually matter, and how these drugs compare to each other. You’ll see how people switch from one type to another, why some stop taking them, and what alternatives—like lifestyle changes or newer treatments—are gaining traction. There’s no marketing fluff here. Just straight talk about what’s on the shelf, what your doctor might not tell you, and what to watch out for when your reflux won’t quit.