The "best" antacid depends on your needs: Tums (Calcium Carbonate) is a potent, fast-acting option for occasional heartburn, while Gaviscon (Alginate/Antacid combo) creates a protective raft for reflux. For faster relief, liquids like Mylanta often work quicker than tablets, and combination products like Gaviscon Dual Action tackle both acid and reflux, but if you need longer relief for frequent issues, see a doctor about H2 blockers (like Pepcid) or PPIs (like Nexium).
Calcium Carbonate [CaCO3] – Calcium Carbonate (chalk) is the most potent usable antacid. It can completely neutralize stomach acid.
Mild Pepcid side effects include headache and dizziness. Stomach-related side effects, such as constipation or stomach pain, are also possible.
Famotidine (Pepcid AC): Safe OTC Option
Among over-the-counter options, famotidine (commonly known as Pepcid AC) stands out as one of the safest and most effective antacids for pets. This H2 receptor antagonist works by reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach rather than simply neutralizing existing acid.
Gaviscon Double Action Liquid was more effective than an antacid without alginate in controlling postprandial esophageal acid exposure. However, the number and spatial distribution of reflux events within the esophagus were similar.
Do not take Gaviscon within 2 hours before or after taking:
Tolerance and safety were good and comparable in both groups. Conclusion Gaviscon® was non-inferior to omeprazole in achieving a 24-h heartburn-free period in moderate episodic heartburn, and is a relevant effective alternative treatment in moderate GERD in primary care. Trial registration ISRCTN62203233.
Feeding a highly digestible, low residue diet – A diet which is highly fibrous can exacerbate reflux, but dogs do need a moderate level of fibre. It is best to avoid large amounts of fruit and vegetables even if pulped or well-cooked, and discourage grass eating.
Omeprazole may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
Omeprazole labeled for humans comes in capsules, tablets, and a liquid formulation. These tend to be the options that vets pick for dogs as well. The most commonly available dosage form is the over-the-counter omeprazole 20 mg tablet or caplet, which is given orally.
Key Symptoms of Gastric Vertigo
Feeling like the room is spinning. Stomach bloating or gas. Nausea or vomiting. Sudden weakness after meals.
Symptoms of stage 4 GERD may include:
Heartburn. Regurgitation of food or liquid. Sore throat. Hoarse voice.
Tums (calcium carbonate) are generally considered the safest to take because they are the weakest, Dr. Lipham says. “Generally, patients will start out taking Tums, and then they escalate their therapy to H2 blockers (Pepcid and Zantac),” he says.
Choose a product that contains:
Natural Remedies for Acidity and Acid Reflux
Mylanta and Maalox are alike, but here's a summary of their differences: All Mylanta products contain simethicone. Not all Maalox products contain simethicone. Some Mylanta products contain calcium carbonate instead of aluminum hydroxide.
Omeprazole is contraindicated in patients with a history of hypersensitivity to the drug or any excipients from the dosage form. Hypersensitivity reactions like anaphylactic shock, angioedema, interstitial nephritis, anaphylaxis, urticaria, and bronchospasm may occur.
For example, it may not be suitable if: you've had an allergic reaction or serious side effect from omeprazole or another proton pump inhibitor (PPI) medicine that reduces stomach acid. you have a kidney or liver condition. you have osteoporosis (weakened bones)
Prescription medicines
Prescription-strength treatments for GERD include: Prescription-strength proton pump inhibitors. These include esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), pantoprazole (Protonix), rabeprazole (Aciphex) and dexlansoprazole (Dexilant).
These breeds, such as pugs, English bulldogs and Boston terriers, are more prone to vomiting and regurgitation due to their shorter esophagus and their increased risk of Hiatal hernias. Both of these factors make it easier for acid reflux to occur in these squished nose and short-headed dog breeds.
In fact, eggs may even be able to help settle your dog's upset stomach and can also be an important source of protein in some commercial dog foods. As with any treat, it's important to use moderation when feeding home-cooked eggs to your dog.
Foods to Soothe Acid Reflux Symptoms
Esomeprazole (Nexium) and omeprazole (Prilosec, Prilosec OTC) belong to a group of medications called proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). They're both effective medications for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Esomeprazole may have stronger acid-lowering effects compared with omeprazole.
Check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist before combining omeprazole with other medications.
OTC options