What can i take at home for heartburn?

There are several over-the-counter (OTC) medications that can help relieve heartburn:

1. Antacids: These medications neutralize stomach acid. Common antacids include calcium carbonate (e.g., Tums), sodium bicarbonate (e.g., Alka-Seltzer), and magnesium hydroxide (e.g., Milk of Magnesia).

2. H-2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs): These medications decrease the production of stomach acid. Common H2RAs include famotidine (e.g., Pepcid), cimetidine (e.g., Tagamet), and nizatidine (e.g., Axid).

3. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): These medications are more potent than H2RAs in reducing stomach acid production. Common PPIs include omeprazole (e.g., Prilosec), esomeprazole (e.g., Nexium), lansoprazole (e.g., Prevacid), rabeprazole (e.g., Aciphex) and pantoprazole (e.g., Protonix).

4. Alginates: These medications form a protective layer on top of the stomach contents, preventing them from refluxing into the esophagus. A common alginate is alginic acid (e.g., Gaviscon).

It is important to follow the dosing instructions on the medication label and to talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about using these medications. Additionally, certain lifestyle changes, such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, maintaining a healthy weight, and elevating the head of your bed during sleep, can help reduce heartburn episodes.