If antacids haven’t resolved the symptoms, an acid-reducing agent may help.

The proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) omeprazole, esomeprazole and pantoprazole block acid release in the stomach. They are effective and start to suppress acid production within one to two hours of taking the first dose, but two to three days’ treatment may be needed for the full benefit to be felt. OTC examples include Pantoloc Control and Nexium Control.

H2 antagonists such as ranitidine reduce stomach acid production and give up to 12 hours’ relief. They can be taken as soon as symptoms start and some can be used as a preventative measure – for example, if someone is going for dinner and knows that they will be eating rich food that is likely to cause symptoms. An OTC example is Zantac 75 Relief.

All OTC acid-reducing medicines should not be used long term, and there are various restrictions regarding their sale. Check packs carefully when recommending or selling these products to customers.

Signposting

For more information, you can:

• Use your Counter Intelligence Plus training guide
• Visit the NHS: indigestion and heartburn and acid reflux 
• See what Guts UK has to say on the subject.
• Read the NICE guidance on GORD.