Acid Reflux — Hyde Park Pharmacy Leeds

Acid reflux is when stomach acid travels up towards the throat, causing a burning feeling in the chest (heartburn) and sometimes an unpleasant sour taste in the mouth. It's very common, often worse after eating, when lying down or when bending over, and most people can manage it well with pharmacy treatments and a few simple changes.

Treatments & products

GSL Gaviscon Advance Peppermint Liquid Creates a protective raft that floats on stomach contents to block acid reflux and... only £8.99 View ›

GSL Gaviscon Double Action Liquid Mint flavour oral suspension containing sodium alginate 500mg, sodium bicarbonate 213mg... from £4.99 View ›

GSL Gaviscon Double Action Sachets Gaviscon Double Action oral suspension in single-dose 10ml liquid sachets, licensed for... only £8.99 View ›

GSL Gaviscon Double Action Tablets Mint flavour chewable tablets containing sodium alginate 250mg, sodium bicarbonate... from £2.99 View ›

GSL Pyrocalm Control 20mg Tablets Gastro-resistant tablets containing omeprazole 20mg for the short-term relief of reflux... from £7.99 View ›

Acid Reflux — your questions, answered

What can I take for heartburn and acid reflux?

Alginates and antacids such as Gaviscon work quickly — they neutralise acid and form a protective layer over your stomach contents. For reflux that keeps returning, omeprazole (Pyrocalm Control) reduces the amount of acid your stomach makes. Our pharmacist can help you choose, and check it sits safely alongside anything else you take.

What triggers acid reflux?

Common triggers include coffee, alcohol, fatty or spicy food, large meals late in the evening, smoking, being overweight and pregnancy. Some medicines can make it worse too. Eating smaller meals, avoiding food in the three to four hours before bed and raising the head of your bed slightly can all make a real difference.

When should I see a GP about acid reflux?

See your GP if you've had heartburn most days for three weeks or more, or pharmacy treatments aren't helping. Get it checked promptly if food sticks when you swallow, you keep being sick, you're losing weight without trying, or there's blood in your vomit — those symptoms always need a proper assessment.

Information only — always read the patient leaflet and ask our pharmacist if you're unsure. Prescription treatments are supplied only after a consultation and our pharmacist's approval.