Medications Used to Treat Stomach Acid
Type of Medication | Some Side Effects | Comments |
|---|---|---|
Antacids | ||
These drugs are used mainly to relieve symptoms, not as a cure. | ||
Histamine-2 (H2) blockers | ||
Rash, fever, diarrhea, muscle pains, and confusion Cimetidine: May cause breast enlargement and erectile dysfunction in men and may interfere with elimination of certain medications | The once-daily dose is taken in the evening or at bedtime. Doses taken in the morning are less effective. | |
Proton pump inhibitors | ||
Diarrhea, constipation, and headache | These medications are usually well tolerated and are most effective means of reducing stomach acid. | |
Other medications for stomach acid | ||
Misoprostol: Abdominal cramping, spontaneous abortion, diarrhea Sucralfate: May reduce absorption of other medications, constipation | Misoprostol is rarely used for treatment of stomach disorders due to the side effects. Sucralfate does not affect acid production but coats stomach ulcers to protect them from acid. | |