Fast, Effective Relief for Acid Reflux
Struggling with frequent heartburn, burning in your chest or a sour taste in your throat? You're not alone. Acid reflux affects millions in the UK every year, but relief is available. At Click Pharmacy, we offer a clinically approved range of acid reflux treatments, including proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), antacids and H2 blockers — with both prescription and over-the-counter options.
Before we can prescribe treatment, you'll need to complete a short online medical assessment and select your preferred option. Our prescribers will then determine the most suitable medicine for your symptoms.
Acid Reflux Treatments Available Online
Choose from a wide selection of medications, including:
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) – Reduce stomach acid production for long-lasting relief. Examples include Omeprazole, Lansoprazole, Esomeprazole and Rabeprazole.
- H2 Receptor Blockers – Such as Ranitidine and Famotidine, ideal for moderate symptoms.
- Antacids & Alginates – For fast, short-term relief. Popular choices include Gaviscon, Rennie and Nexium Control.
All orders are reviewed by UK-registered prescribers to ensure safety and suitability.
What is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux happens when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus due to a weakened lower oesophageal sphincter (LES). If this occurs more than twice a week, it may indicate Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).
Common symptoms include:
- Burning pain in the chest (heartburn)
- Sour taste in the mouth
- Regurgitation
- Bloating and burping
- Persistent cough or sore throat
Severe untreated reflux can lead to complications like oesophagitis, strictures or Barrett’s oesophagus.
What causes Acid Reflux?
Triggers vary by individual but can include:
- Spicy or acidic foods
- Coffee, alcohol, and chocolate
- Large meals or eating before bed
- Smoking
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Hiatal hernia
Certain medications and stress can also exacerbate symptoms.
How to treat Acid Reflux
Treatment options include:
- Lifestyle Changes: Eat smaller meals, avoid trigger foods, lose weight if overweight, avoid lying down after meals, and elevate your head during sleep.
- Medications:
- PPIs: e.g., Omeprazole, Esomeprazole — for reducing acid production.
- H2 Blockers: e.g., Famotidine — work by lowering stomach acid.
- Antacids/Alginates: e.g., Gaviscon, Rennie — neutralise existing acid.
- Prokinetics: Rarely prescribed, improve gastric emptying.
Your prescriber will recommend a suitable treatment based on your symptoms and history.
Acid reflux treatment comparison
| Medicine | Active Ingredient | Type of Medication | Prescription Required | Dosing Frequency | How to Take | How It Works | Price (starting from) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Esomeprazole | Esomeprazole | Capsule / Tablet | Yes | Once daily (can increase if needed) | Swallow with water, at least 1 hour before food | Reduces stomach acid by blocking acid-producing pumps | £14.99 |
| Lansoprazole | Lansoprazole | Capsule / Orodispersible tablet | Yes | Once daily (some take twice) | Take on an empty stomach, 30 minutes before meals | Blocks acid production in the stomach lining | £12.99 |
| Omeprazole | Omeprazole | Capsule / Tablet | Yes | Once or twice daily | Swallow before meals with water | Suppresses acid by inhibiting proton pumps | £17.99 |
| Pantoprazole | Pantoprazole | Tablet | Yes | Once daily | Take at least 1 hour before meals | Lowers acid by targeting stomach proton pumps | £14.99 |
| Rabeprazole | Rabeprazole | Tablet | Yes | Once daily | Take with or without food | Quickly blocks acid secretion | £10.00 |
When to speak to a doctor
You should consult your GP if you experience:
- Persistent heartburn more than twice per week
- Chest pain
- Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
- Vomiting blood or black stools
- Unintentional weight loss
In these cases, further investigations like endoscopy or pH monitoring may be required.
Possible side effects of treatment
Most acid reflux medicines are well tolerated. Common side effects may include:
- Headaches
- Nausea or diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Bloating or gas
Rare side effects include allergic reactions or nutrient absorption issues (e.g. with long-term PPI use). Always read the patient leaflet and report any unusual symptoms to your GP.
How long does it take to work?
Many patients notice relief within a few hours for antacids, and within 2–4 days for PPIs and H2 blockers. Complete symptom resolution may take up to 2–8 weeks depending on severity.
Preventing Acid Reflux
You can prevent flare-ups by:
- Avoiding trigger foods (spicy, fatty, acidic)
- Eating 3–4 hours before bedtime
- Quitting smoking
- Reducing stress
- Wearing looser clothing
- Elevating your head during sleep
Include high-fibre, alkaline and watery foods like oats, bananas, cucumber and herbal teas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is acid reflux the same as heartburn?
They are related. Heartburn is the most common symptom of acid reflux, but indigestion can also occur.
How long should I take PPIs or H2 blockers?
This depends on your symptoms. Your prescriber will guide your course. Long-term use should be medically reviewed.
Can I buy acid reflux treatment without a prescription?
Yes, some antacids and OTC PPIs like Nexium Control are available without a prescription. Others will require an assessment.
Will I need tests for acid reflux?
Not usually, unless symptoms are severe or unusual. Your online assessment will help determine next steps.
Always read the patient information leaflet before starting treatment.
Related Acid Reflux Treatment advice & articles
How to order
Order your Acid Reflux Treatment medication in a few clicks. Ordering from us is easy, fast and discreet.
Free Online Assessment
Answer a few simple questions about your health.
Choose Your Medication
Our prescribers will review and guide you to the right treatment.
Fast Delivery
Once approved, your treatment is dispatched discreet packaging by next day delivery.