Best OTC Medicines for Heartburn
Common over-the-counter options for heartburn, with typical adult dosing and key safety notes.
Medically reviewed by a licensed pharmacist · Last reviewed
Reviewed against: FDA OTC Monograph
Alginate Antacid
10-20mL or 2-4 tablets by mouth after meals and at bedtime as needed. Max 8 doses per day. Forms protective barrier over stomach contents.
Aluminum Hydroxide Simethicone
Adults and children 12 years and older: 1-2 tablets or 10-20mL by mouth after meals and at bedtime as needed. Max 12 tablets or 120mL/day. Do not use for more than 2 weeks without consulting a physician.
Calcium Carbonate
Chew 2-4 tablets (500-1000mg each) as needed when symptoms occur. Max 7000mg in 24 hours, or 3000mg/day if pregnant.
Cimetidine
200mg by mouth up to twice daily as needed for heartburn prevention, or 800mg at bedtime. Max 800mg/day unless directed by physician. Take 30 minutes before meals that trigger heartburn.
Esomeprazole
20mg by mouth once daily on empty stomach, 1 hour before eating. Take for 14 days, may repeat after 4 months if needed. Do not exceed 3 courses per year.
Famotidine
20mg by mouth once or twice daily. Take 30-60 minutes before known trigger meals OR at bedtime for nighttime symptoms. Max OTC dose 40mg/day.
Lansoprazole
15mg by mouth once daily on empty stomach, 30-60 minutes before eating. Max 15mg/day for 14 days. May cause headache or diarrhea.
Magnesium Hydroxide
5-15mL by mouth as needed for heartburn, or 2-4 chewable tablets. Max 60mL or 16 tablets in 24 hours. Often combined with aluminum hydroxide to balance bowel effects.
Omeprazole
20mg by mouth once daily, taken 30-60 minutes before breakfast. Course is 14 days max without medical advice. Full effect builds over 1-4 days.
Sodium Bicarbonate
1/2 teaspoon (2.3g) dissolved in water every 2 hours as needed. Max 4 doses/day for adults under 60, max 2 doses/day for adults 60+. Do not use for more than 2 weeks.
This page is for general education and is not medical advice. It does not replace a consultation with a licensed pharmacist or your clinician. Always read and follow the product label. If symptoms are severe, worsening, or persistent, seek professional care.