Acid Reflux and Prilosec

Patients suffering from GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) often have chronic symptoms (for their whole life), constantly in search of new treatment for their acid reflux, and Prilosec can help.

Acid reflux and Prilosec have been paired together since 1990, when the FDA requested the brand name of omerprazole – a proton pump inhibitor – be changed from Losec to Prilosec. It is one of the most widely prescribed drugs for acid reflux, and Prilosec is even available over the counter in some countries. In fact, Prilosec is actually the first proton pump inhibitor to be available over the counter.

Acid Reflux and Prilosec

The link between acid reflux and prilosec as treatment is a result of the mechanism of action of prilosec. The stomach’s proton pumps secrete hydrogen atoms into the stomach that help form hydrochloric acid. Prilosec inhibits these pumps resulting in less acid production.

Side effects are obviously important factors to consider when taking any drug, not just for acid reflux, and Prilosec does have a few. As with all proton pump inhibitors – acid reducing agents – Prilosec is generally well tolerated, but over 1% of users experience diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and dizziness. As frequent as these side effect occur, it is interesting to note that in clinical trials, these side-effects were also experienced on a comparable scale to test subjects taking a placebo. Acid reflux and prilosec treatments are, therefore, relatively safe and devoid of side effects.

As mentioned, many people suffer from lifelong acid reflux, and Prilosec manufacturers understand that constant medicating is a hassle. Effective heartburn relief lasts 24 hours taking only one pill a day. It is the number one selling heartburn OTC heartburn medicine for frequent acid reflux, and Prilosec still leaves enough acid for digestion (a common problem).

So ask your doctor today, because you deserve to live without acid reflux, and Prilosec can make that happen.