GERD in Infants and Children (cont.)
Medications for GERD
Medications to neutralize or decrease stomach acid that are safe for infants and children include:
- Antacids such as Mylanta and Maalox
- Acid blockers such as Pepcid, Tagamet or Zantac
- Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as Axid, Nexium, Prevacid and Prilosec. These products reduce the production of acid by blocking the enzyme in the wall of the stomach that produces acid.
Medicines that decrease intestinal gas or neutralize stomach acid (antacids) are considered safe. However, at high doses, antacids can cause some side effects, such as diarrhea or constipation. Chronic use of very high doses of antacids also may be associated with an increased risk of rickets (thinning of the bones). Although serious side effects are rare, it is important to discuss with your child's doctor the pros and cons of taking a prescription medication.
Other medications used to treat GERD are those that attempt to improve coordination of the gastrointestinal tract. These include:
- Reglan. Reglan reduces symptoms of GERD by speeding up the digestion process. However, it is associated with many side effects, some of which can be serious. Reglan also can be associated with a number of drug interactions and may increase the risk of seizures in people who have seizures.
- Erythromycin. This is an antibiotic that is usually used to treat bacterial infections. It causes strong stomach contractions which eases reflux; however, this effect is not lasting.
- Propulsid. This drug was voluntarily withdrawn from the U.S. market in 2000. However, it is still available with extremely limited access. The drug works by increasing the rate that food moves through the intestines. The drug is very effective for treating childhood reflux; however, it is associated with abnormal heart rhythms.
Your child's doctor will discuss the pros and cons of these medications before prescribing them for your child.
Next: Surgery for GERD »
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