How Long Does It Take for Acid Reflux Tablets to Work?

Acid reflux, also known as heartburn gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common condition that many people experience. It occurs when stomach acid rises up into the oesophagus, causing discomfort, irritation, and a burning sensation in the chest. For many, acid reflux becomes a regular problem, prompting the use of acid reflux tablets to help alleviate symptoms.

If you’re dealing with acid reflux, you may be wondering how long it takes for acid reflux tablets to work. In this article, we’ll explain what acid reflux is, how acid reflux tablets can help, and how long it typically takes for these medications to start providing relief.

What Causes Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux happens when the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle at the bottom of the oesophagus, doesn’t close properly. This allows stomach acid to flow back up into the oesophagus, resulting in the uncomfortable sensation commonly known as heartburn. Other symptoms of acid reflux can include regurgitation, nausea, a sour taste in the mouth, and difficulty swallowing.

Several factors can contribute to acid reflux, including:

• Eating large meals or lying down right after eating
• Being overweight or obese
• Eating spicy, fatty, or acidic foods
• Drinking too much caffeine, alcohol, or carbonated drinks
• Smoking
• Pregnancy

When lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough to control the symptoms, many people turn to medications to help manage acid reflux.

Types of Acid Reflux Tablets

There are several different types of medications available to treat acid reflux, but the two most common categories are proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers.

1. Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs are medications that reduce the production of stomach acid. They work by blocking the action of the proton pumps in the stomach, which are responsible for producing acid. Popular PPIs include Omeprazole (Losec) and Lansoprazole (Zoton).
2. H2 Blockers: These medications also reduce stomach acid but in a slightly different way. They work by blocking histamine, a chemical that stimulates acid production. H2 blockers like Ranitidine and Famotidine are effective for treating mild acid reflux symptoms.

For this article, we’ll focus on two common proton pump inhibitors: Omeprazole (Losec) and Lansoprazole (Zoton).

How Do Omeprazole and Lansoprazole Work?

Both Omeprazole and Lansoprazole are designed to reduce stomach acid, which is the main cause of acid reflux.

• Omeprazole is a widely used PPI that blocks the proton pumps in your stomach, which decreases acid production. It’s commonly prescribed for GERD, stomach ulcers, and heartburn relief. However, Omeprazole (Losec) doesn’t provide immediate relief, so it's important to take it consistently for 14 days to get the best results.
• Lansoprazole (Zoton) is another PPI that works similarly to Omeprazole. It is particularly effective in treating GERD, reducing stomach acid, and providing long-term relief. Zoton comes in the form of orodispersible tablets, which dissolve in the mouth for easier intake. It also reduces the risk of ulcers and can help with abdominal pain caused by acid reflux.

How Long Does It Take for These Acid Reflux Tablets to Work?

The time it takes for acid reflux tablets to work can vary depending on the medication and the severity of your symptoms. Here's a general guide to how long you can expect to wait before feeling relief:

• Omeprazole (Losec): Omeprazole can take some time to start working. Although you may begin to feel relief from heartburn within 2 to 3 days, it’s important to take the medication for the full 14-day course to experience the best results. Omeprazole works gradually to reduce stomach acid production, so it may not provide immediate relief from symptoms, but with consistent use, it can help prevent future flare-ups of acid reflux.
• Lansoprazole (Zoton): Lansoprazole works similarly to Omeprazole in that it reduces stomach acid production. For those suffering from heartburn or GERD, Zoton can offer relief within a few days, though the full effects might take a week or more to become noticeable. Zoton typically requires a 4-week course for the best results, although our experts might adjust the dosage based on your condition. Like Omeprazole, Lansoprazole does not offer immediate relief, but it works steadily over time to reduce acid and prevent symptoms from returning.

Can I Stop Acid Reflux Quickly?

If you're looking for fast relief, acid reflux medications like Omeprazole and Lansoprazole are not designed for immediate symptom relief. These tablets require consistent use to reduce stomach acid over time and provide long-term relief from heartburn. 

If you experience frequent heartburn or acid reflux, it's best to speak with our experts about a long-term treatment plan. PPIs like Omeprazole and Lansoprazole are excellent for managing chronic acid reflux but may not be suitable for immediate relief.

Omeprazole vs Lansoprazole: Which One is Better?

If you're deciding between Omeprazole (Losec) and Lansoprazole (Zoton), the answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. Both are proton pump inhibitors that work similarly to reduce stomach acid, but they have some differences:

• Omeprazole is widely available and often prescribed for long-term use. It’s effective in treating GERD and ulcers but may take a little longer to provide noticeable results.
• Lansoprazole (Zoton) is an orodispersible tablet that can dissolve in your mouth, which makes it easier to take, especially for those who have difficulty swallowing pills. It also works well for treating GERD and preventing ulcers.

In general, both medications are effective for acid reflux treatment. The best choice for you depends on factors such as your specific condition, ease of use, and the recommendation.

Find Fast Relief with the Best Acid Reflux Tablets – Shop Now!

When it comes to acid reflux, the treatment with the best acid reflux tablets requires time and consistency. Omeprazole and Lansoprazole are excellent options for managing acid reflux over the long term, but they are not meant to provide immediate relief. While you may feel some improvement within a few days, it’s important to follow the full course of treatment to see the best results.

If you're looking for reliable acid reflux treatment, visit Pharmacy Planet today. We offer a wide range of heartburn remedies and acid reflux tablets, including Omeprazole and Lansoprazole, to help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Order from us today and get fast, secure delivery!