Treatment

Many over-the-counter medications can help relieve heartburn. The options include:

• Antacids, which help neutralize stomach acid. Antacids may provide quick relief. But they can't heal an esophagus damaged by stomach acid.
• H-2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs), which can reduce stomach acid. H2RAs don't act as quickly as antacids, but may provide longer relief.
• Proton pump inhibitors, such as lansoprazole (Prevacid 24HR) and omeprazole (Nexium 24HR, Prilosec OTC), which also can reduce stomach acid.

If over-the-counter treatments don't work or you rely on them often, see your doctor. You may need prescription medication and further testing.