Gastro esophageal reflux disease

Gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux as it is commonly known, can be brought under control effectively by the use of prescription drugs. These drugs, however, are not free from side effects and should be taken only after a proper discussion with your physician.The main work of these prescription drugs is to control or stop the release of the acids that are produced in your stomach to the esophagus or food pipe. As a result some of these drugs are even referred to as proton pump inhibitors.

Medicines like ‘Reglan’ which are known as motility drugs, helps to empty the stomach soon, which lessens GERD.Certain other medicines like ‘Carafate’, referred to as mucosal protectors, protect the esophageal lining by forming a protective coat in it, thereby stopping further damage to the esophagus. None of these medicines are free from side effects though.

Proton pump inhibitors sometimes cause nausea, flatulence, stomach pain, and constipation in certain cases as per Nexium’s test studies. Medicines like Prilosed, Prevacid, and Protonix too revealed similar side effects and come with a warning of getting prompt medical attention if any discomfort arises. In the case of Motility drugs, this includes Reglan, the stomach empties faster which actually results an overall accelerated absorption rate, which is a case for concern. Reglan may also lead to problems like insomnia, restlessness, depression, and anxiety as it has an effect on the nervous system too. It may also result in involuntary muscle movements.

Mucosal protectors like Carafate contains aluminum and may hence cause aluminum toxicity which are revealed through symptoms like sleepiness or convulsions. But this is a very rare side effect. The more common ones are constipation, dizziness, indigestion, nausea etc. It is always advisable to have a thorough discussion with the doctor before taking any of these medications prescribed for GERD.