What are proton pump inhibitors?

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are one type of medication that can be used to reduce stomach acid and relieve GERD symptoms. Other medications that can treat excess stomach acid include H2 receptor blockers, such as famotidine (Pepcid AC) and cimetidine (Tagamet). However, PPIs are usually more effective than H2 receptor blockers and can ease symptoms in the majority of people who have GERD. PPIs work by blocking and reducing the production of stomach acid. This gives any damaged esophageal tissue time to heal. PPIs also help prevent heartburn, the burning sensation that often accompanies GERD. PPIs are one of the most powerful medications for relieving GERD symptoms because even a small amount of acid can cause significant symptoms. PPIs help to decrease stomach acid over a four to 12-week period. This amount of time allows for proper healing of the esophageal tissue. It may take longer for a PPI to ease your symptoms than an H2 receptor blocker, which usually starts reducing stomach acid within one hour. However, symptom relief from PPIs will generally last longer. So PPI medications tend to be most appropriate for those with GERD. Prescription-strength and over-the-counter PPIs seem to work equally well in preventing GERD symptoms.