Treatment options for indigestion - Proton Pump Inhibitors

Treatment for indigestion depends on what is causing it and how severe symptoms are.

Diet and lifestyle changes - if symptoms are mild and your indigestion is not occurring often, some lifestyle changes will probably ease symptoms. This usually involves consuming less fatty foods, less caffeine, alcohol and chocolates, sleeping at least 7 hours every night, and avoiding spicy foods.

Medications:

Antacids - examples include Alka-Seltzer, Maalox, Rolaids, Riopan, and Mylanta. These are OTC (over-the-counter, no prescription needed) medicines. These are usually the first medications doctors recommend.

H-2-receptor antagonists - examples include Zantac, Tagamet, Pepcid and Axid. Some of these are OTC while others are prescription drugs. They reduce levels of stomach acids and last longer than antacids. However, antacids are effective faster. Some patients may experience nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, and headaches. Other side-effects may include bruising or bleeding.

PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) - examples include Aciphex, Nexium, Prevacid, Prilosec, Protonix and Zegerid. PPIs are very effective for patients who also have GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). They reduce stomach acid and are stronger than H-2-receptor antagonists. Side effects may include cough, headache, dizziness, back pain, abdominal pain, wind, nausea and/or vomiting, constipation and diarrhea. In very rare cases long-term use can lead to bone fractures.

Prokinetics - an example includes Reglan. This medication is helpful if the stomach empties slowly. Side effects may include tiredness, depression, sleepiness, anxiety and muscle spasms.

Antibiotics - if Helicobacter pylori is causing peptic ulcers which result in indigestion an antibiotic will be prescribed. Side effects may include upset stomach, diarrhea and fungal infections.

Antidepressants - if no causes for indigestion are found after a thorough evaluation and the patient has not responded to treatments, the doctor may prescribe antidepressants. Antidepressants sometimes ease the discomfort by reducing the patient's sensation of pain. Side effects may include nausea, headaches, agitation, constipation, and night sweats.

The doctor may also recommend making changes to the patient's current medication if it is thought that it could be contributing to the indigestion. Sometimes aspirin or ibuprofen may be discontinued and alternative medications sought. It is important to change medications under the supervision of your doctor, and not to do this on your own.