What is the Difference Between Antacid and PPI?

The main difference between antacids and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) lies in how they work to alleviate heartburn and acid reflux symptoms. Here are the key differences between the two:

Antacids:

• Neutralize the acid in your stomach, providing quick relief for unexpected heartburn.
• Work quickly, but their effects may last up to 2 hours per dose.
• Examples include Tums® and Rolaids®.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs):

• Work by shutting down pumps that release acid into your stomach.
• Require a 14-day regimen and are intended to treat frequent heartburn.
• May take 1-4 days to fully work.
• Examples include Prilosec® and Nexium®.

In summary, antacids provide short-term relief by neutralizing stomach acid, while PPIs offer long-term relief by reducing the body's production of acid. It is not recommended to take PPIs and antacids at the same time. If you have heartburn that cannot be controlled with a PPI, consult your doctor about other options for relief.

Comparative Table: Antacid vs PPI

The main difference between antacids and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) lies in their mode of action and duration of relief. Here is a comparison table highlighting their differences:

Antacids, such as Tums and Rolaids, work by neutralizing stomach acid and providing short-term relief from heartburn and acid reflux. On the other hand, PPIs like Omeprazole, Lansoprazole, and Pantoprazole reduce the production of stomach acid, providing long-term relief from these symptoms. PPIs may take 1-4 days to fully work and require a consistent dosing schedule for optimal results.