Heartburn & Indigestion
19 Heartburn & Indigestion treatments found
Overview
Treatments for Heartburn, Acid Reflux and Indigestion
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid rising into the oesophagus (acid reflux). Indigestion (dyspepsia) causes discomfort, bloating or nausea after eating. Both are extremely common and usually manageable with over-the-counter treatments. There are two main types: antacids, which neutralise stomach acid for quick relief, and acid reducers (PPIs), which reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces for longer-lasting effect.
Important Safety Information
- Antacids should be taken at least two hours apart from certain other medicines, as they can affect absorption
- PPIs (omeprazole, Nexium Control) are intended for short-term use (up to two weeks) without prescription. See your GP if symptoms persist
- If you experience persistent heartburn on most days for three weeks or more, difficulty swallowing, vomiting blood, or unexplained weight loss, see your GP urgently
Available Treatments
Gaviscon (Antacid + Raft-Forming)
Gaviscon neutralises stomach acid and forms a protective raft on top of the stomach contents to prevent acid rising into the oesophagus. It provides fast, targeted relief from heartburn and acid reflux. Gaviscon Advance offers a stronger formulation.
Rennie (Antacid)
Rennie tablets contain calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate, which quickly neutralise excess stomach acid. Chewable tablets provide fast relief from heartburn and indigestion, typically within minutes.
Alka-Seltzer (Effervescent Antacid)
Alka-Seltzer dissolves in water to create an effervescent drink that neutralises stomach acid and may help relieve nausea associated with indigestion.
Nexium Control / Omeprazole (PPI - Acid Reducer)
Proton pump inhibitors reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces at source. They provide longer-lasting relief than antacids but take one to three days to reach full effect. Taken once daily before food for up to two weeks.
Choosing the Right Treatment
Symptom | Recommended Type | Example Treatments |
| Occasional heartburn after meals | Antacid | Rennie, Gaviscon |
| Acid reflux (burning rising into throat) | Raft-forming antacid | Gaviscon Advance |
| Frequent or persistent heartburn | PPI (short-term) | Nexium Control, Omeprazole |
| Indigestion with nausea | Effervescent antacid | Alka-Seltzer |
Sources and References
NHS - Heartburn and acid reflux: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/heartburn-and-acid-reflux/
NHS - Indigestion: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/indigestion/
NICE - Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and dyspepsia in adults (CG184)
FAQ
What is the difference between antacids and PPIs?
Antacids (Rennie, Gaviscon) neutralise acid that has already been produced, providing fast but temporary relief lasting one to three hours. PPIs (omeprazole, Nexium) reduce acid production at source, providing longer-lasting relief over 24 hours but taking one to three days for full effect. PPIs are better suited to frequent symptoms.
How it works
Achieve your goals in just a few simple steps
Step 1
Start Free Consultation
Answer some questions so we can understand your needs.
Step 2
Review By Our Clinical Team
Our expert team will use your consultation as the basis of our recommendation and communicate with you.
Step 3
From Prescription to Doorstep
Orders are carefully reviewed by a prescriber before discreet dispatch.
Step 4
Achieve your health goals
A plan tailored to your needs for real, measurable results.
Need something else?
We stock over 1102 treatments for 90 conditions
