Over-the-counter relief for GERD

Reflux happens when stomach contents move upwards into the food pipe, causing burning, sour taste, throat irritation, cough, or discomfort after meals or when lying down. Antacids can neutralise acid for short-term relief. Other pharmacy medicines reduce acid production and may take longer to have their full effect.

Symptoms can overlap with [Chronic Cough](/conditions/chronic-cough/), and reflux can be affected by a [Hiatus Hernia](/conditions/hiatus-hernia/) or [Obesity](/conditions/obesity/). Relief from a product does not confirm the diagnosis.

Ask a pharmacist to choose a product around your other medicines, pregnancy status, kidney health, and symptom pattern. Follow the label and do not combine products with similar ingredients unless advised. Leave the recommended separation between antacids and medicines that can be affected by them.

Smaller meals, avoiding food close to bedtime, raising the head end of the bed, and identifying personal triggers may reduce symptoms. Keep a record of frequency, night symptoms, swallowing difficulty, and any [Cough](/symptoms/cough/) or [Difficulty Sleeping](/symptoms/difficulty-sleeping/).

Seek urgent help for chest pressure, severe [Chest Tightness](/symptoms/chest-tightness/), breathlessness, sweating, faintness, vomiting blood, or black stools. Arrange medical review for trouble swallowing, unexplained weight loss, repeated vomiting, persistent [Abdominal Pain](/symptoms/abdominal-pain/), or symptoms that keep returning despite label-directed use.

Does my pattern fit reflux? Which product and duration are suitable with my medicines? Could another condition be causing the cough or pain? Do I need testing or a longer-term treatment plan?