From the Guidelines
For an acute exacerbation of GERD after taking Tums, you can try taking an over-the-counter H2 blocker like famotidine (Pepcid) 20mg or ranitidine (Zantac) 150mg, which work differently than antacids by reducing acid production. For stronger relief, consider an over-the-counter proton pump inhibitor (PPI) such as omeprazole (Prilosec) 20mg or esomeprazole (Nexium) 20mg once daily for up to 14 days 1.
Key Considerations
- Immediate lifestyle changes can also help:
- avoid lying down for 2-3 hours after eating
- elevate the head of your bed 6-8 inches
- avoid trigger foods (spicy, fatty, acidic foods, chocolate, caffeine)
- wear loose clothing
- stay hydrated but avoid alcohol
Medication Mechanisms
These medications work by either neutralizing stomach acid (Tums), blocking histamine receptors that stimulate acid production (H2 blockers), or inhibiting the proton pumps that produce acid (PPIs) 1.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If symptoms persist beyond two weeks, worsen, or if you experience difficulty swallowing, chest pain, or vomiting, seek medical attention as these could indicate a more serious condition 1.
From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Acute Exacerbation of Heartburn
You have already taken Tums, which is a calcium carbonate antacid. According to the study 2, calcium carbonate antacids can alter esophageal motility in heartburn sufferers, which may help to reduce heartburn symptoms.
Additional Treatment Options
- Consider taking a histamine2-receptor antagonist like famotidine, as it has been shown to have a prolonged duration of action compared to calcium carbonate antacids 3.
- Alginate-based therapies may also be effective in treating GERD symptoms, especially when compared to placebo or antacids 4.
- If your symptoms persist, you may want to consider consulting a doctor about prescription medication, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), or lifestyle changes like weight loss and smoking cessation 5.
Important Considerations
- It's essential to note that while Tums can provide quick relief, its duration of action is relatively short, typically lasting around 60 minutes 3.
- Combination therapy with PPIs and histamine2-receptor antagonists may not provide additional benefits for GERD symptoms, and the clinical significance of nocturnal acid breakthrough is not clear 6.