Proton pump inhibitors are very effective for decreasing stomach acid production. That's because proton pump inhibitors effectively block the final stage of acid production regardless of stimuli. This relieves the burning feeling caused by an acid-related disorder and results in healing of the affected area. Taken only once a day, proton pump inhibitors work to effectively relieve heartburn associated with GERD for 24 hours. The length of your treatment depends on how often you get heartburn, how serious your acid reflux is, and how your body responds to the medicine.
Some people feel better very soon after they start taking their medicine.
Others need to take it longer. Even if you feel better quickly, you should take all of your medicine as directed. Only your doctor can know for sure how long you will need to take your medicine. A small number of people with heartburn may need surgery because of complications and poor response to medical treatment. The surgical procedure, called fundoplication, improves the natural barrier between the stomach and the esophagus, which prevents acid backup.