What Medications Can Aggravate GERD?
People who suffer from heartburn or acid reflux two or more times a week may be prescribed GERD medications to help alleviate symptoms, such as proton pump inhibitors that reduced the production of stomach acids. In addition to taking any GERD medications that your doctor prescribes, you should also talk to your doctor about any other medications you’re taking as some drugs can actually make GERD symptoms worse.
What Medications Can Aggravate GERD?
Certain medications won’t affect the amount of acid in your stomach but can irritate the lining of your esophagus, which can make heartburn pain worse. Medications that can irritate your esophagus include:
- Antibiotics such as tetracycline
- Bisphosphonates, including Fosamax, Boniva and Actonel
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, including aspirin and ibuprofen
Iron and potassium supplements may also cause additional inflammation of your esophagus.
Other medications can worsen GERD by increasing the production of stomach acid and making acid reflux occur more frequently. These medications that increase acid reflux include:
- Anticholinergics such as Ditropan
- Calcium channel blockers and nitrates
- Opiods such as codeine, Lortab and Vicodin
- Progesterone
- Quinidine
- Sedatives or tranquilizers, including Valium and temazepam
- Theophylline (Elixophyllin, Theochron)
If you suffer from GERD symptoms or your doctor has prescribed GERD medications, be sure to tell your doctor about any medications you’re taking. This should include prescription medications as well as over-the-counter medicines or dietary supplements you may be taking on your own. In addition to aggravating your GERD symptoms, some medications will be affected by the GERD medications your doctor may prescribe.