Quick answer: The most commonly used over-the-counter medicines for stomach pain are antacids, H2-receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors. These relieve symptoms by reducing acid production or neutralising stomach acid. However, in the event of persistent, recurrent or warning symptoms, a medical examination is necessary.
Stomach pain is one of the most common complaints that lead people to visit a chemist. Pharmacy shelves stock a wide range of over-the-counter medicines that promise rapid relief. However, many people are unsure which medicine is the right one, and when home treatment is sufficient.
This article provides an overview of over-the-counter medicines for stomach ache, their mechanisms of action and their uses. It also explains what lifestyle changes can help alleviate the symptoms, and in which cases it is advisable to consult a specialist. The aim is to provide clear, reliable information on managing these symptoms.
What can cause stomach ache?
There are many possible causes of pain in the stomach area. The most common triggers include excessive stomach acid production, inflammation of the mucous membrane and acid reflux. The following conditions can all cause epigastric pain:
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation (heartburn) behind the breastbone.
- Gastritis (stomach inflammation): Inflammation of the stomach lining, which can be caused by stress, alcohol, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or the Helicobacter pylori bacterium.
- Peptic ulcer disease: The main causes of gastric or duodenal ulcers are H. pylori infection and regular use of NSAIDs. The pain associated with a duodenal ulcer typically occurs on an empty stomach and at night.
- Functional dyspepsia: Abdominal pain or discomfort not caused by any organic disorder. It affects a significant proportion of the population, and stress also contributes to its development.
Common triggers include the consumption of spicy, fatty or acidic foods, as well as coffee, alcohol and smoking.
Which over-the-counter medicines help with stomach ache?
Three main groups of medicines are available over the counter in pharmacies to relieve stomach complaints. Each works in a different way, so it is worth knowing the differences between them.
Antacids
Antacids neutralise stomach acid that has already been produced, thus providing rapid but relatively short-lived relief. Their active ingredients are usually a combination of magnesium hydroxide, aluminium hydroxide or calcium carbonate.
- When is it recommended? For occasional, mild symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn.
- What should we look out for? Magnesium salts may cause diarrhoea, whilst preparations containing aluminium may cause constipation. They are not suitable for use on their own in cases of peptic ulcer disease.
H2 receptor antagonists
These medicines (such as famotidine) reduce acid production in the stomach by blocking histamine receptors. Their effect takes longer to set in than that of antacids, but lasts longer.
- When is it recommended? For the treatment of moderate reflux disease and recurrent heartburn.
- What should we look out for? Side effects are rare, and the active ingredient is safe for treating mild symptoms.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
Proton pump inhibitors (such as omeprazole, pantoprazole and esomeprazole) are the most potent acid-reducing agents. They provide long-lasting inhibition of the cells that produce stomach acid. They are most effective when taken 30–60 minutes before a meal.
- When is it recommended? For persistent heartburn and symptoms of acid reflux.
- What should we look out for? It is recommended to take the lowest effective dose for the shortest possible period. It is advisable to consult a doctor before taking these supplements long-term, as prolonged use may affect the absorption of vitamin B12, calcium and magnesium.
Which medicine should we choose?
The choice of the right product depends on the nature of the symptoms. A few simple considerations may help you decide:
- Occasional, mild heartburn: Antacids offer a quick solution.
- Common, moderate symptoms: H2 receptor antagonists provide a longer-lasting effect.
- Persistent, recurring symptoms: Proton pump inhibitors are the most effective, but their long-term use requires medical supervision.
It is important to note that these medicines alleviate the symptoms but do not necessarily address the underlying cause. If the symptoms do not improve within a few weeks, it is advisable to have the underlying problem investigated.
What lifestyle changes can help?
As well as medication, lifestyle changes can also go a long way towards alleviating stomach problems. The following recommendations are particularly useful for those suffering from reflux symptoms:
- Raising the head of the bed to reduce night-time reflux.
- Avoiding trigger foods: chocolate, coffee, tea, citrus fruits, tomatoes, and fatty and spicy dishes.
- Smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overfilling the stomach.
- Avoiding eating before going to bed.
- Giving up smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
- Weight loss in cases of excess weight.
When combined with acid-reducing treatment, these changes often provide sufficient relief for milder symptoms.
When should we see a doctor?
Over-the-counter medicines are intended for mild, occasional symptoms. In certain cases, however, stomach ache may be a sign of a more serious condition and require assessment by a specialist. If you experience any of the following warning (so-called „alarm”) symptoms, you should definitely consult a doctor:
- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Recurrent vomiting
- Bloody or black, tar-like stools
- Haemoptysis
- Anaemia (iron-deficiency anaemia)
- Pain that does not improve with long-term acid-reducing treatment
These symptoms may also indicate a more serious condition affecting the upper digestive tract, so they must be investigated without delay. To reach an accurate diagnosis, it is often necessary to gastroscopy (gastroscopy) is necessary, as it is the most effective method for detecting lesions in the mucous membrane and taking tissue samples.
How does Endomedix fit into all this?
At Endomedix’s gastroenterology centres, our specialists carry out comprehensive investigations and treatment of stomach complaints. To accurately identify the cause of persistent or recurrent stomach pain, we provide state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and experienced internal medicine specialists and gastroenterologists.
If the investigation of symptoms requires a gastroscopy, the procedure can also be carried out under general anaesthesia at Endomedix. For professional reasons, Endomedix uses general anaesthesia exclusively, rather than sedation: the procedure is supervised by a qualified anaesthetist, who monitors the patient’s vital signs throughout the entire examination. This ensures that the examination is pain-free and safe.
If you are unsure about the cause of your symptoms, we recommend that, as a first step, you a specialist gastroenterology consultation, where our doctors will draw up a personalised examination and treatment plan. Don’t put off getting checked out if your symptoms are persistent — book an appointment at Endomedix today.
Frequently asked questions
How long can I take over-the-counter antacids for stomach ache?
Antacids and H₂ receptor antagonists are intended for occasional, mild symptoms. If symptoms persist for more than two weeks or recur, it is advisable to consult a doctor to determine the underlying cause. Long-term use of proton pump inhibitors requires medical supervision.
When is stomach ache a cause for concern?
Stomach pain requires urgent medical attention if it is accompanied by unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, recurrent vomiting, vomiting blood, or bloody or black stools. These warning signs may indicate a more serious condition.
Can over-the-counter medicines replace medical treatment?
No. Over-the-counter medicines relieve symptoms, but do not always treat the underlying cause. In the case of peptic ulcer disease or a Helicobacter pylori infection, for example, targeted, prescription-only treatment is required, which is prescribed by a doctor.
What tests can be used to determine the cause of stomach pain?
Gastroscopy is the most accurate method for investigating the causes of upper gastrointestinal symptoms. During the procedure, the specialist examines the mucous membrane and, if necessary, takes a tissue sample to establish an accurate diagnosis.
Summary
In cases of mild, occasional stomach pain, over-the-counter antacids, H2-receptor antagonists and proton pump inhibitors can provide effective relief, particularly when combined with lifestyle changes. However, these medicines treat the symptoms, not always the underlying cause.
If your symptoms are persistent, recurrent or accompanied by warning signs, do not delay seeking medical advice. Book an appointment for a specialist consultation at Endomedix, where you can receive an accurate diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan.
