How do you treat indigestion dyspepsia? Indigestion relief medications are antacids, H2 receptor antogonists, proton pump inhibitors and prokinetics.
Dyspepsia medication for indigestion treatment
Treat functional dyspepsia with changes in diet and with medications. Individual dietary experience may prove helpful.
Antacids, such as Alka-Seltzer, Andrews Antacid, Brioschi, Equate, Maalox (liquid), Maalox (tablet), Milk of Magnesia, Pepto-Bismol, Pepto-Bismol Children’s, Rennie (tablets), Rolaids, Tums, Mylanta, Eno, Gelusil (available in tablet and syrup form), and gaviscon (available in syrup and tablet form) are usually the first drugs recommended to relieve symptoms of indigestion. These antacid medications use different combinations of three basic salts; magnesium, calcium, and aluminum with hydroxide or bicarbonate ions to neutralize the stomach acid. However, antacids have side effects; magnesium salt can cause diarrhea, and aluminum salt may cause constipation. Aluminum and magnesium salts are often available in combination in a single product to balance these effects. Calcium carbonate antacids can also supplement calcium, though they may cause constipation.
H2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) are ranitidine (Zantac), cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid), and nizatidine (Axid) are available by prescription and over-the-counter. It treats indigestion symptoms by lowering stomach acid. They work longer; however, slower as compared with antacids. Side effects may include headache, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and unusual bleeding or bruising.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are omeprazole (Prilosec, Zegerid), lansoprazole (Prevacid), pantoprazole (Protonix), rabeprazole (Aciphex), and esomeprazole (Nexium). They are available by prescription; however, Prilosec is available in over-the-counter strength. They are stronger than H2RAs, treat indigestion symptoms by reducing stomach acid. It is most effective for those who also have GERD. Side effects may include back pain, aching, cough, headache, dizziness, abdominal pain, gas, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea.
Prokinetics such as metoclopramide (Reglan) may be helpful in treating indigestion symptoms for people with the stomach emptying too slowly. Metoclopramide additionally improves muscle contraction in the digestive tract. It has frequent side effects that limit their usage, such as fatigue, sleepiness, depression, anxiety, and involuntary muscle spasms or movements.
Antibiotics are useful if the test results show the bacteria that cause peptic ulcer disease. These antibiotics can treat the condition by destroying these harmful bacteria.