Antacids

• Over-the-counter antacids like Rolaids, Maalox, Alka-Seltzer or Mylanta are often sufficient to treat mild GERD.
  
  

Foaming Agents

• Foaming medications (such as Gaviscon) coat the stomach with foam, preventing stomach content from rising into the esophagus, and are typically the next step if antacids don't suffice.
  
  

H2 Blockers

• H2 blockers, also known as receptor antagonists, include cimetidine, ranitidine, famotidine and nizatidine. These treat GERD by stifling the production of stomach acid.
  
  

Proton Pump Inhibitors

• Omeprazole, pantoprazole, esomeprazole, rabeprazole and lansoprazole stop production of more acid than H2 blockers, and can repair damage to the esophagus.
  
  

Prokinetics

• Prokinetics like metoclopramide and bethanechol are a last resort because of side effects like drowsiness, anxiety, depression and difficulty moving. They help the stomach empty faster and the lower esophageal sphincter open and close properly.