Eat more slowly. Downing a lot of food in a hurry can cause the stomach to produce extra digestive acids. When this happens, it's easier for the contents of your stomach to shoot back up into your esophagus. They are usually taken after meals or at bedtime. Antacids, if taken regularly, can neutralize acid in the esophagus and stomach and stop heartburn.
Antacids usually provide at least temporary or partial relief.
Antacids can also be combined with a foaming agent such as alginic acid to bring relief. These compounds are believed to form a foam barrier on top of the stomach that prevents acid reflux from occurring. If an antacid has not provided relief in several weeks, it probably won't. Persons with high blood pressure should also check with their doctor before taking antacids, since they can be high in sodium. Cimetadine and ranitidine can increase the effects of alcohol.