ACID REFLUX TREATMENT
Between the oesophagus and the stomach is a lining that prevents a build up of acid from escaping. When this lining becomes weakened or impaired, acid reflux may result.
Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GORD) is a severe form of acid reflux. It can cause a burning sensation and pain in the chest, as well as inflammation.
It is caused by a leakage of acid from the stomach, into the oesophagus. This is the tube that connects the stomach and the throat. The leakage is thought to occur when the lining separating the 2 becomes weakened or impaired.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF GORD (ACID REFLUX)?
. Heartburn
. Acid reflux
. Bad breath
. Gas, bloating, and belching
. Pain or difficulty when swallowing
. Vomiting
. Nausea
WHAT ARE THE AVAILABLE TREATMENTS FOR GORD?
Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for GORD, but you may be able to better control symptoms with the following:
. Eating smaller portions, on a more frequent basis
. Prescription medication available from your GP, such as proton pump inhibitors, H2 receptor antagonists
. Over-the-counter remedies such as Antacid and Alginate
HOW CAN I PREVENT GORD?
Although some people are lifelong sufferers of GORD, there are some simple ways that can reduce the severity and the impact that it has on you. Eating smaller portions, maintaining a healthy weight, and raising the sleeping end of the bed can all help control symptoms. You may also find that certain foods and drinks trigger an episode, so avoiding these triggers can help.
You can come in and speak to our friendly local pharmacy team, who will be happy to supply you with the following medications without prescription (subject to consultation):
. Esomeprazole (Generic Nexium)
. Lansoprazole
ESOMEPRAZOLE (GENERIC NEXIUM)
What is Nexium used for?
Nexium is a drug used to treat Gastro-Oesophageal Acid Reflux (GORD) – the most severe type of acid reflux. Its active ingredient is Esomeprazole. This is a proton pump inhibitor drug that can be used to treat and lessen the symptoms of conditions where the stomach and intestines are negatively affected by acid.
What is acid reflux (GORD)?
The protective barrier between the stomach and the oesophagus, which prevents the backflow of acid, is less effective in people suffering from GORD. This causes stomach acid to travel back up into the oesophagus, causing pain, discomfort, and a burning sensation, in the chest and throat.
How does it work?
Esomeprazole belongs to a class of drugs and medications that reduce the volume of acid produced by the stomach. This in turn reduces the effects of acid travelling up through the oesophagus and causing pain or burning to the chest and throat.
How should I take Esomeprazole?
Tablets should be taken whole, and never chewed or broken. They are best taken with water, in the morning, 30 minutes before eating.
What is the difference between Esomeprazole and Nexium?
Nexium is a branded medication, containing the active ingredient, Esomeprazole. This active ingredient is also available as generic Esomeprazole, but it is sold at a lower cost. In the UK, generic medications are required to be demonstrably as effective as their branded counterparts before they are allowed for sale. This ensures that the generic version has the same effect on the body as the original/branded version.
Side effects:
Around 1 in 10 people may experience some degree of side effects when taking Esomeprazole. These include:
. Nausea
. Stomach pain
. Flatulence
. Constipation
. Headache
. Dizziness
Patient information – Full product information on Esomeprazole 20mg can be found here: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.2968.pdf
LANSOPRAZOLE
What is Lansoprazole used for?
Lansoprazole is a medication defined as a proton pump inhibitor. It is used to treat heartburn or acid reflux and can provide relief from symptoms of chest pain and inflammation.
What is acid reflux (GORD)?
Acid reflux occurs when acid escapes from the stomach and is regurgitated back up the oesophagus and throat. This causes inflammation and pain in the chest, as well as a burning sensation in the throat. The protective barrier that usually prevents the escape of stomach acid is impaired, which causes the acid to enter the tube leading into the stomach
How does it work?
Lansoprazole reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach, thereby decreasing symptoms of excess acid entering the oesophagus.
How should I take Lansoprazole?
Tablets should be swallowed whole, and never broken up or crushed. They are to be taken with water, 30 minutes before eating, preferably in the morning. Tablets can be taken daily for 4 weeks initially, with a further 4 weeks permitted should the reflux or heartburn persist.
Side effects:
Occasionally, side effects may occur when taking this medication. These include:
. Headache
. Stomach pain
. Flatulence
. Nausea
. Diarrhoea
Patient information – Full product information on Lansoprazole can be found here: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.4393.pdf
AVAILABILITY
Select one of our convenient pharmacy locations and visit their page directly for further information. Alternatively, pop into your local branch for a friendly chat.
