This post is sponsored by Mirum, but opinions expressed here are my own.
When heartburn hits, it isn’t fun. It can come on suddenly after eating something that doesn’t agree with me. Or, it can take a little time and hit when I am lying down in bed at night.
Signs You Have Heartburn
The typical signs for me that heartburn is coming on include:
- A burning sensation in my upper abdomen and throat
- Belching followed by an acidic taste in my mouth
- Chest, back, or shoulder pain
- Stomach pain when I lie down
- Discomfort immediately after eating rich or spicy foods
If you have similar symptoms, you are likely to reach for an antacid to calm the fire. Sometimes this can provide temporary relief. I generally reach for an over-the-counter Proton Pump Inhibitor (PPI) capsule, which settles things down within a few days. One capsule provides 24-hour relief for me. I am careful not to take a PPI for more than 14 days in a row, as directed.
The only inconvenience with the capsules is that sometimes I just don’t have anything to drink so that I can swallow the pill. This is especially true when I am driving and don’t have a water bottle with me. I have discovered a solution to this problem, which I have mentioned before. I can’t say enough about the convenience of the new Omeprazole Orally Disintegrating Tablets (Omeprazole ODT). ODT treats the same heartburn symptoms as Prilosec OTC.
I get these tablets from our local pharmacy in the store brand. Buying the store brand really makes these more affordable. They are conveniently packed in boxes that I can keep in my glove compartment and at home. I just place a strawberry-flavored tablet in my mouth and allow it to melt on my tongue. No water needed.
Overcome Heartburn
Omeprazole Orally Disintegrating Tablets are the only Proton Pump Inhibitor that comes in this form. This OTC medicine works using MELTech technology. If I had to compare, I would say that these work as well for me as Prilosec. The only difference is that the ODT is a bit more convenient and more affordable than the regular pills.
If you suffer from occasional acid reflux or heartburn, as indicated by the signs I have listed above, you can make your life simpler by picking up some Omeprazole ODT from your local pharmacy or big box store. Be sure to ask a clerk for the store brand. This over-the-counter medication is not intended for immediate relief and can take 1-4 days for full effect. Always have some tablets on hand at home, and take some with you when you leave the house. Remember to take one every 24 hours, but not for more than 14 days in a row.