Do you have stomach acid problems such as acid reflux (Heart Burn)? If so there is some good news. You can now get your medication over the counter. If you have a stomach ulcer, pain in your stomach, or blood in your urine or stools see a doctor. When treating acid reflux we start with a H2RA class medication such as Zantac (ranitidine). Ranitidine can be bought over the counter or with a prescription. After taking this medication daily for a month we can evaluate whether to continue or move to the next class. If the H2RA was ineffective, we will change the medication to a proton pump inhibitor (PPI). One of the most common PPI’s is Prilosec (omeprazole). This medication is also available over the counter and by prescription. The usual omeprazole dose is one capsule by mouth every morning 30 minutes before breakfast, but can be taken up to twice a day. If the medication is not working consult your doctor. If you have any questions or concerns always ask your pharmacist or doctor. Also, at Chambers’ Apothecary we have an all natural antacid made by Proven Old Amish Formula called Stops Acid Reflux.

H2 receptor antagonists (H2RA) block the production of histamine on parietal cells specifically in the stomach, decreasing the production of acid in these cells. Also, blocking other substances that promote acid secretion such as gastrin and acetylcholine has a reduced effect on parietal cells when the H2 receptors are blocked.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI) act by irreversibly blocking the hydrogen/potassium adenosine triphosphatase enzyme system (the H+/K+ ATPase, or, more commonly, the gastric proton pump) of the gastric parietal cells. The proton pump is the terminal stage in gastric acid secretion, being directly responsible for secreting H+ ions into the gastric lumen, making it an ideal target for inhibiting acid secretion.

Thanks,

Tyler Craig