Written by The type of medication used to treat gastritis will depend on the underlying cause of the condition. However, some common medications used to reduce stomach acid and relieve symptoms include:
- Acid blockers: These medications work by blocking the production of stomach acid. Examples of acid blockers include famotidine (Pepcid), cimetidine (Tagamet), and ranitidine (Zantac).
- Proton pump inhibitors: These medications are more potent acid blockers than H2 blockers. Examples of proton pump inhibitors include omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid), rabeprazole (Aciphex), and pantoprazole (Protonix).
- Antacids: These medications neutralize stomach acid. Examples of antacids include Tums, Rolaids, and Maalox.
- Sucralfate: This medication helps to protect the stomach lining from acid damage.
- Bismuth subsalicylate: This medication has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is used to treat gastritis caused by H. pylori infection.
In addition to medication, your doctor may also recommend lifestyle changes to help you manage gastritis, such as:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals.
- Avoiding foods that irritate your stomach, such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol.
- Quitting smoking.
- Getting enough sleep.
- Managing stress.
It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully when taking medication for gastritis. Do not stop taking the medication without talking to your doctor, even if your symptoms improve.
If you have any concerns about taking medication for gastritis, talk to your doctor. They can help you decide which medication is right for you and answer any questions you have.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind:
- Gastritis can be a serious condition, so it is important to see a doctor if you have any symptoms.
- Treatment for gastritis usually takes several weeks.
- You may need to take medication for several months or even longer, depending on the cause of your gastritis.
- If you have gastritis caused by H. pylori infection, you will also need to take antibiotics.
- It is important to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to prevent the gastritis from coming back.