Stomach problems such as heartburn, acid reflux, bloating, or stomach pain are very common in Japan. Many people take stomach medicine regularly, but not everyone knows how these medicines differ in strength and effect. This article explains the stomach medicine strength ranking, compares prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, and helps you understand how to choose the right one for your symptoms.
What are stomach medicines?
Stomach medicines are medicines that help reduce gastric acid, protect the stomach from inside, protect or prevent stomach infections, or improve digestive problems. Different types of stomach medicines have different actions or are prescribed according to your condition.
Types of stomach medicines:
-
Proton Pump Inhibitors(PPIs):
PPIs are strong and long-acting, which block excessive acid production in the stomach.
Examples:
- Omerpazole
- Pantprazole
- Lansoprazole
- Esmoprazole
- Vonoprazan
-
Blockers:
These reduce acid production by blocking histamine receptors in the stomach.
Example:
Famotidine
Cimetidine
-
Antacids:
These neutralise the acid in the stomach and provide quick and short-term relief.
Example:
Aluminium Hydroxide
Magnesium Hydroxide
Calcium Carbonate
-
Mucosal Protectant:
These provide a protective layer over the stomach lining, often used in gastritis, mucosal irritation or ulcers.
Example:
Sucrafate
Rebamipide
Teprenone
Ecabet Sodium
-
Prokinetic Agent:
They help the food pass through the stomach faster, often used in bloating and slow digestion issues.
Example:
Mosapride citrate
Domperidone
Itopride hydrochloride
metoclopramide
Understanding Medicine Strength Rankings
The strength of the stomach medicine depends on the effect and how long it lasts. Below we have listed a simplified ranking from the strongest to mildest medicine strength ranking:
Prescription Medicine Strength Ranking (Strongest to Mildest)
- Vonoprazan (Takecab): Prescription Proton Pump Inhibitors are known to be the strongest and longest-lasting acid suppressants. Vonoprazan is a new PPI that is faster and more effective than others.
- Esomeprazole / Lansoprazole / Omeprazole: These are stronger than other stomach medicines; they are commonly used in GERD, ulcers and severe heartburn. It takes around 1-2 days to reach full effect, but it is strong and long-lasting.
- Famotidine (Prescription Strength): It is weaker than PPIs but acts faster. It is useful for moderate acid reflux or gastritis.
- Rebamipide / Sucralfate: These are often used together with PPI for ulcers due to their stomach lining protection and healing properties.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicine Strength Ranking
- Omeprazole 10 mg: Strongest OTC option for reflux and heartburn
- Famotidine 10 mg: Effective for a quick occasional acid reflux, but the effect is not long-lasting.
- Antacids: These are good for short-term and quick relief for acidity or indigestion.
How to Choose the Right Stomach Medicine
For heartburn:
If you have occasional heartburn, then Antacids or OTC famotidine can be taken.
If you have frequent heartburn and acid reflux, then PPIs like Esomeprazole or Omeprazole are best for you.
For Gastritis:
Treatment for gastritis usually depends on the cause; the best stomach medicine is PPI plus the treatment of the cause.
For Gastric or Duodenal Ulcers:
PPIs like Lansoprazole, pantoprazole, or rabeprazole provide the most effective healing.
For GERD with Erosive Esophagitis:
High-dose PPIs like Esomeprazole or lansoprazole are used.
Common Side Effects of Stomach Medicines
Stomach medicines are generally safe, but there are still potential side effects that need to be monitored.
Proton pump inhibitors:
Common side effects: headache, diarrhoea, nausea, and abdominal pain.
Long-term use: increases the risk of bone fractures, vitamin B12 deficiency, low magnesium in the body, and kidney problems.
Serious but rare side effects include severe diarrhoea and skin reactions.
H2 Receptor Antagonists:
Mild diarrhoea, constipation, fatigue, drowsiness, or headache.
Antacids:
Common: Constipation (aluminium and calcium-containing products) or diarrhoea (magnesium-containing products
Overuse: Electrolyte imbalances and metabolic alkalosis
Warning Signs:
If you experience Black or bloody stools, severe abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, persistent vomiting, or symptoms that don’t improve with treatment, then it will require immediate medical attention.
FAQs
- What is the strongest stomach medicine?
PPIs such as Vonoprazan and esomeprazole are considered to be the strongest stomach medicines.
- Can I take Omeprazole and Gaster together?
Taking both omeprazole and famotidine is generally safe and can provide increased acid suppression.
- How long does Takecab take to work?
Takecab (vonoprazan) provides a faster onset of action compared to other PPIs.
- Are over-the-counter stomach medicines as effective as prescription options?
Yes, OTC H2 blockers and antacids manage mild to moderate symptoms, but prescription PPIs provide better healing for erosive esophagitis, gastric ulcers, and GERD.
- When should I see a doctor?
If you experience constant pain, vomiting, difficulty swallowing, or notice blood in your vomit or stool, visit a doctor immediately.
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