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Experts recommend the best OTC picks whether you have occasional flare-ups or chronic indigestion. ammonium lauryl sulfate
When heartburn or acid indigestion strikes, you need something that settles your stomach. It’s smart to have a reliable over-the-counter antacid on hand that can provide quick relief, as these medications work by minimizing the amount of stomach acid you produce, says University of Missouri Health Care gastroenterologist Yezaz Ghouri, MD.
The stomach normally produces hydrochloric acid to help digest food and kill bacteria or other organisms that may have been ingested along with the food. But, overproduction of stomach acid can lead to stomach discomfort, Dr. Ghouri explains. When you're shopping for an antacid, look for active ingredients that reduce heartburn, such as calcium carbonate. Other common acid suppressors are H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)—both work to reduce or prevent the stomach from producing as much acid—and work better for people with chronic acid reflux or chronic dyspepsia, says Matt Tompson, MD, a gastroenterologist with Houston Methodist.
To find the best antacids, we researched dozens of products and evaluated them for efficacy, formulation, price, and active ingredients. An emergency physician from our Medical Expert Board also reviewed the contents of this article for medical accuracy.
There are three main types of remedies for acid reflux:
Active Ingredients: Aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone | Dosage: 10–20 mL between or after meals or at bedtime | Uses: Heartburn, gas, upset stomach
David Bilstrom, MD, an autoimmune functional medicine doctor, recommends Mylanta Antacid and Gas Relief because it provides fast, yet relatively long-lasting, relief from multiple acid-related symptoms. Mylanta contains both aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide, which immediately work to neutralize stomach acid. It also contains simethicone, which breaks up gas bubbles in the stomach to help you pass gas (and get relief) more easily.
Mylanta comes in liquid or tablet form, and you can take it one to three hours after a meal for up to four hours of relief. Dr. Bilstrom likes liquid formulations because they work the quickest and coat the stomach. Mylanta offers liquid versions in two flavors: Classic (a refreshing lemon-mint flavor) and Vanilla Caramel. If you're not a fan of sipping your medicine, Mylanta also comes in chewable tablets that are convenient to take on the go.
Mylanta isn't a preventive medicine, so you'll have to take it during or after eating or drinking something that causes heartburn.
May not start working until 1–4 days in
May have long-term side effects
Active Ingredients: Omeprazole | Dosage: 1 tablet every day for 14 days | Uses: Heartburn and acid indigestion
The active ingredient in Prilosec, omeprazole, was one of the first antacids in the class of drugs called proton pump inhibitors (or PPIs), Dr. Ghouri says. Prilosec reduces the amount of food-digesting acid produced by the cells in your stomach lining. So, once it kicks in, you should have fewer symptoms of heartburn and acid indigestion for a whole day, as a dose lasts 24 hours.
If you’re accustomed to taking an antacid when symptoms strike, you’ll want to note the different dosage instructions for Prilosec, since they are best for people with chronic symptoms. Take one pill daily for 14 days, every four months (or up to three times per year).
It may take one to four days before you feel the full effects of the drug, so PPIs like Prilosec are not for immediate relief. Since PPIs are the strongest medicines for reflux, Bryan Curtin, MD, Director of the Center for Neurogastroenterology and GI Motility at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, recommends trying histamine H2 blockers, like Pepcid AC, first.
May cause constipation with overuse
Active Ingredients: Calcium carbonate | Dosage: 2 to 4 tablets as needed | Uses: Heartburn and acid indigestion
Among the quickest remedies that you can carry with you for acid reflux and heartburn are the TUMS Chewy Bites Antacid Tablets. Not only will they provide you quick relief from whatever symptoms you might be feeling, but the tablets also come in a tasty assortment of berry flavors and boast a candy-like chewy texture.
These tablets are made with calcium carbonate, a mineral that neutralizes the acid in the stomach and esophagus that causes uncomfortable symptoms. For best results, take two to four tablets when you begin to notice symptoms. You can continue to use the TUMS as needed until the symptoms cease. Dr. Curtin generally recommends people start by taking an OTC remedy like TUMS rather than a PPI because it's readily available and doesn’t come with serious side effects.
The main active ingredient in Tums, calcium carbonate, is known to cause constipation in some people. If you already struggle with constipation as well as acid reflux, try another OTC med without calcium carbonate, like Pepto-Bismol.
Works quickly to reduce stomach acid
Comes in multiple flavors and formulations
Active Ingredients: Calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide | Dosage: 2 to 4 tablets as needed | Uses: Heartburn and acid indigestion
Rolaids Extra Strength Antacid Chewable Tablets incorporate two key ingredients—magnesium and calcium carbonate—to give you fast relief from heartburn, nausea, and other acid-reflux-related symptoms that can pop up throughout the day.
Magnesium is an ingredient found in many different acid reflux medications. When combined with active ingredients like calcium carbonate, this combination helps neutralize the stomach acid in both the stomach and esophagus. Together, they can ease feelings of discomfort and nausea.
One bonus of this medication is that it comes in a soothing mint flavor. The tablet is also chewable, making it easier for people who do not want to swallow a pill when they are looking for relief from their symptoms.
Rolaids Antacid doesn't contain any ingredients that work to suppress stomach acid production, so it's not a preventive solution.
Highly effective for reflux symptoms
Proton pump inhibitors are associated with long-term side effects
Active Ingredients: Esomeprazole | Dosage: 1 capsule every day for 14 days | Uses: Frequent or chronic heartburn
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is caused by stomach acid rising all the way up into your esophagus, throat, and mouth, and it can cause a painful burning sensation, belching, and difficulty swallowing. If you have these symptoms, then you may also experience acid reflux and heartburn but should see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
GERD often requires lifestyle and diet changes for long-term relief. But OTC medication, specifically a PPI like Nexium, can be a good option for people to find some relief from the symptoms as well. Nexium 24HR Acid Reliever works by blocking acid production to protect the body from symptoms like heartburn. The best part is that Nexium boasts long-lasting relief beyond other OTC medications on the market.
It is important to remember that while Nexium can help relieve symptoms for people living with GERD, it is also imperative to implement diet and lifestyle changes to manage the disease in the long term.
PPIs like Nexium may increase your risk for serious infections such as pneumonia, and you're at a higher risk for this with age or if you have decreased immunity.
Safe for kids as young as 2 years old
Reduces acid and fights gas
Free of gluten and artificial flavors
Can cause constipation with overuse
Active Ingredients: Calcium carbonate, simethicone | Dosage: 1 tablet every 8 hours for kids ages 2 to 5; and 2 tablets every 4 hours for kids ages 6 to 11 | Uses: Bloating, gas, and indigestion in kids
Mylicon has been making simethicone drops for babies with painful gas between feedings for years. And the brand also offers a children’s antacid, so there’s a way to help older kids, too. Containing acid-reducing calcium carbonate and gas-busting simethicone, Mylicon works well for kids with occasional indigestion as well as for kids who have more frequent stomach aches.
The tablets are free of gluten, saccharin, alcohol, and artificial flavors. And they're safe for kids between the ages of two and 11. Younger kids can take one tablet three times per day, and older kids can take two tablets up to six times per day.
Mylicon contains calcium carbonate, the same active ingredient in TUMS, which can sometimes cause constipation.
Active Ingredients: Aluminum hydroxide, magnesium carbonate | Dosage: 2 to 4 tablets after meals and at bedtime as needed | Uses: Heartburn, sour stomach, acid indigestion
If you need immediate relief after chowing down on a spicy meal, look for antacids with fast-acting ingredients. Gaviscon tablets contain magnesium carbonate, which kicks in in seconds, instantly extinguishing heartburn and indigestion. We also love that it contains aluminum hydroxide, which is a longer-lasting ingredient that can help maintain that relief for several hours after taking it.
Gaviscon tablets come in original and cherry flavors, and these chewable tablets are easy to take with you on the go or keep in your car. You can take two to four tablets after meals and at bedtime as needed up to four times a day and drink a half glass of water along with it. But if you find that you are using these two to three times a week regularly, see your doctor to make sure you’re not experiencing something more than just simple heartburn, Dr. Bilstrom says.
Gaviscon tablets don't contain any ingredients that work to reduce stomach acid production in the first place, so it's not a preventive solution.
Highly effective for reflux symptoms
Not safe for people with kidney or liver disease
Active Ingredients: Famotidine | Dosage: 1 tablet 15 to 60 minutes before a meal up to 2 times a day | Uses: Heartburn, acid indigestion
If you're not interested in taking a PPI but still need something that'll give you lasting relief and won't leave your esophagus burning an hour after taking it, H2 blockers like Pepcid AC are your best bet. Pepcid AC contains the active ingredient famotidine, which works by reducing the amount of acid your stomach produces—and relief lasts up to 12 hours.
To prevent symptoms, take one pill with a glass of water about 15 minutes to an hour before a heartburn-triggering meal. But if heartburn randomly strikes, you can also take a tablet after the onset of symptoms for relief—just note that Pepcid AC will take about 15 to 30 minutes to kick in. And because one tablet can provide you with about half a day of stomach settling, you can take one pill and go about your day without worrying the uncomfortable acid will creep back up.
People living with kidney or liver disease shouldn't take Pepcid AC or other H2 blockers because the active ingredient can build up in the bloodstream, contributing to health issues.
Treats multiple symptoms, including diarrhea
May cause constipation with overuse
Active Ingredients: Bismuth subsalicylate | Dosage: 30 mL every 30 minutes as needed | Uses: Nausea, heartburn, indigestion, upset stomach, and diarrhea
Dr. Ghouri recommends that people with mild, intermittent heartburn turn to this recognizable option, which treats bloating, gas, nausea, and diarrhea symptoms, too. Pepto-Bismol, or bismuth subsalicylate, is available in a few different formulations—like chewable tablets and capsules—but the liquid variety cools the burn as it goes down. Once it’s ingested, it coats your stomach and reduces inflammation, which can also deter your stomach from overproducing acid.
Bismuth subsalicylate is also highly effective at treating bloating and other uncomfortable IBS symptoms. We love that Pepto-Bismol doesn't contain any calcium carbonate, which can cause gas and bloating in some people. You can take two tablespoons of the liquid every 30 to 60 minutes, as needed, for up to eight doses in 24 hours.
Pepto-Bismol, with its fluorescent pink color, has a chalky texture and minty (or cherry) flavor that may be a little too strong and off-putting to some. Note that taking Pepto-Bismol consistently can cause constipation.
Free of aluminum, talc, dairy, or gluten
Safe to use every day
May not be as effective as traditional products
Active Ingredients: None | Dosage: 2 capsules with meals or as needed | Uses: Heartburn and acid indigestion
If you feel squeamish about the thought of adding more medications to your daily routine, then a drug-free, all-natural alternative like Maty’s could be a good option for you.
With tummy-friendly ingredients known to reduce stomach acid, relieve constipation, and reduce bloating, this supplement might help you prevent some of your most frequent symptoms. It also lets you reap the benefits of a few superfoods, like turmeric, ginger, and apple cider vinegar. While there isn’t a ton of evidence confirming the benefits of these ingredients, many researchers have suggested that these ingredients can relieve pain, reduce inflammation, support your immune system, and improve circulation—all in addition to potentially relieving your heartburn and indigestion.
If you take other medications contraindicated for use with many common OTC antacids or have experienced constipation with many other treatments, a drug-free option can help you avoid interactions and side effects.
This homeopathic solution may not work as well as OTC meds that have more potent active ingredients in them. But if you prefer a natural remedy, try these capsules from Maty’s before resorting to stronger options on this list.
If you find yourself occasionally battling heartburn and acid reflux, you'll want to turn to a quick-acting yet effective OTC solution. Mylanta scored the top spot on our list of best antacids because it works quickly (within minutes) and provides up to 4 hours of relief from multiple acid-related symptoms. Plus, it doesn't come with any potentially serious side effects and is safe for most people to take. However, if you have chronic heartburn that interferes with your daily life, you might consider a longer-lasting option like an H2 blocker (such as Pepcid AC) or a proton pump inhibitor (Like Nexium 24). But if you're turning to antacids multiple times a week, it's worth visiting your doctor because frequent heartburn can be a sign of something more serious going on, Dr. Bilstrom says.
To find the best antacids, we spoke to doctors about the active ingredients in these OTC meds and asked them for their go-to recommendations. We also researched popular brands on drugstore shelves and chose the best products based on the following attributes:
Certain antacids can cause constipation, especially if you’re taking them around the clock or using more than the recommended amount.
Antacids containing calcium carbonate, like TUMS, Pepto-Bismol, and some proton pump inhibitors, can cause constipation. Dr. Tompson has found that some patients can also experience relief from constipation they are experiencing after taking these medications, but that relief should not sway patients toward taking antacids. Talk to your doctor if you think your antacid is making it more difficult for you to have regular bowel movements.
Antacids can help with gas, but it’s not a symptom addressed by all OTC antacids. Proton pump inhibitors don’t specifically target gas and bloating, but antacids containing simethicone, bismuth subsalicylate, or magnesium can relieve gas symptoms in addition to reflux and indigestion. Some antacids may contain magnesium, which will have a laxative effect at certain dosages, Dr. Birnstein says.
Timing for these medications will often depend on which type of antacid you are taking. Antacids that are neutralizers are best taken when you have symptoms because they work well to relieve symptoms when they start, Dr. Tompson says.
As for H2 blockers, you can take them any time of day. But proton pump inhibitors tend to work best for people when they are taken in the morning, about 30 minutes before breakfast. That's because PPIs halt the production of acid before you eat or drink something that could trigger the reaction, Dr. Tompson says.
It depends on their active ingredient. Traditional antacids like TUMS take seconds to minutes to kick in, while H2 blockers can take up to an hour to start working. Proton pump inhibitors are better suited to treating chronic heartburn and can take up to four days to kick in.
It's not recommended to take antacids every day for a long time. While you can use them long-term, you should do so only occasionally as they're intended for mild heartburn symptoms only, Dr. Bilstrom says. If you find yourself using these multiple times a week, you may have a more serious condition, such as GERD or peptic ulcer disease, which requires a visit to your doctor.
April Benshosan is an experienced health journalist and editor whose work highlights her passion for arming people with the information they need to make informed decisions about their health. She's interviewed countless doctors and other medical professionals and has written multiple articles on OTC medications throughout her career.
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