Best Medicines for Acidity & GERD in India
Acidity ranges from mild to chronic GERD requiring different treatments.
Last updated: October 2026
Antacids
Use: Quick relief of heartburn for a few hours. Does not treat the cause, so see your doctor if you need it regularly.
Side effects: Constipation or diarrhoea, wind, stomach cramps. Do not take other medicines within 2 to 4 hours of an antacid, as it can stop them working well.
Side effects: Constipation or diarrhoea, wind, stomach cramps. Do not take other medicines within 2 to 4 hours of an antacid, as it can stop them working well. Quick relief of heartburn for a few hours. Does not treat the cause, so see your doctor if you need it regularly.
Pantoprazole
Use: PPI for moderate-severe acidity.
Side effects: Headache, diarrhoea, nausea or constipation (uncommon). Taking it for more than 3 months can lower magnesium levels, and long-term use may raise the risk of bone fractures, gut infections and low vitamin B12, so your doctor should review it regularly.
Side effects: Headache, diarrhoea, nausea or constipation (uncommon). Taking it for more than 3 months can lower magnesium levels, and long-term use may raise the risk of bone fractures, gut infections and low vitamin B12, so your doctor should review it regularly. PPI for moderate-severe acidity.
Famotidine
Use: H2 blocker. Reduces stomach acid. Your doctor may suggest it if a PPI does not help.
Side effects: Headache, dizziness, constipation, diarrhoea
Side effects: Headache, dizziness, constipation, diarrhoea. H2 blocker. Reduces stomach acid. Your doctor may suggest it if a PPI does not help.
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if acidity lasts more than 2 weeks or comes most days, your medicines are not helping, food gets stuck or it is hard to swallow, you keep being sick, you lose weight without trying, or you have blood in your poo. Get emergency help straight away if you vomit blood or your vomit looks like ground coffee.
Related Lab Tests
Frequently Asked Questions
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The medicines, Indian brands and advice on this page were checked against these treatment guides and product listings.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. The medicines listed may require a prescription. Dosage, suitability, and safety depend on individual health conditions. Always consult a licensed doctor or pharmacist before starting any medication.