If antacids haven't resolved the symptoms, an acid-reducing agent may help.

The proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) omeprazole, esomeprazole and pantoprazole block acid release in the stomach. They are effective and start to suppress acid production within one to two hours of taking the first dose, but two to three days' treatment may be needed for the full benefit to be felt. OTC examples include Pantoloc Control, Zanprol Tablets and Nexium Control.

H2 antagonists such as famotidine and ranitidine reduce stomach acid production and give up to 12 hours relief. They can be taken as soon as symptoms start and can be used as a preventative measure €“ for example, if someone is going for dinner and knows that they will be eating rich food, which is likely to cause symptoms. OTC examples include Pepcid Two and Zantac 75 Relief.

All OTC acid-reducing medicines should only be used for a few days at a time, and there are various restrictions regarding their sale. Check packs carefully when recommending or selling these products to customers.