[governsleastgovernsbest]

I'm actually more of a Protonix guy - seriously!

Which raises the question: do you feel Pepcid OC is as effective as Protonix or Nexium? I stil get reflux despite my daily Protonix combined with generic Gavascon tablets.

[Pharmboy]

Well, for acid suppression, the proton pump inhibitors--like Protonix--are much better than the H2 inhibitors (e.g., Pepcid, Zantac and others). The only difference between the Rx and OTC is the dosage.

First, for reflux disease, you should make sure that you do all the non-drug stuff (very important!), such as 1) if overweight, lose it. A huge amount of reflux disease will GO AWAY with success here. 2) If reflux wakes you at night, elevate head of bead with a few bricks under frame. 3) Do not eat late 4) do not eat a lot at any sitting 5) Do not wear tight fitting (abdominal) clothes. 6) Watch out for caffeine containing foods or any particular food types that may bother you (Taco Bell anyone?). 7) Sometimes a motility agent needs to be used along with an anti-acid agent.

Check with your doc--and, you should see a good GI guy/gal if this is a long-satnding problem or something you have to deal with on a daily basis.

If you like, you can freepmail me with your geographical location and I will make a few recommendations for GI people.

Best,
PB