How quickly does acid reflux medication relieve indigestion?

Antacids can neutralise acid already present and may act quickly. Acid-reducing medicines change acid production and may need regular use before their full effect is clear. Indigestion can also come from food intolerance, stomach irritation, an ulcer, gallbladder problems or medicines, so acid treatment may not relieve every episode.

Bloating, fullness, upper-abdominal discomfort and burning can overlap. Improvement after a dose does not identify the underlying cause, particularly when symptoms are new or recurrent.

Use the product according to its label or prescription, including its timing around meals. Avoid taking extra products or continuing self-treatment beyond the recommended period without professional advice.

Eat slowly, choose modest portions, stay upright after meals and limit foods or drinks that clearly trigger symptoms. Record the sensation, timing, meals and medicines so a clinician can distinguish indigestion from reflux or another problem.

Get urgent care for severe chest pain, breathing difficulty, faintness, vomiting blood, black stools or sudden severe abdominal pain. Arrange an appointment for persistent or recurring indigestion, difficulty swallowing, repeated vomiting, anaemia symptoms or unintentional weight loss.

Ask which type of medicine matches your symptoms, how soon it should work, how long it is appropriate to use, and whether another medicine may be irritating your stomach.