The acid test: OTC reflux and GORD management

Case scenario

Kurt, a 52-year-old slightly overweight electrician, comes into your pharmacy complaining of a burning feeling in his chest after meals, which has persisted for a few weeks.

You ask about other symptoms and he describes a burning sensation behind his sternum, generally mild but worse when he lies down after dinner, and the occasional sour taste in the back of the throat 1–2 times a week. He shares that he eats irregularly, is a heavy coffee drinker due to shift work and often has large late-evening meals. He finds late-night snacking, alcohol and spicy takeaways aggravate his symptoms. Kurt takes no other medicines, has no allergies and is a non-smoker.

Learning objectives After reading this article, pharmacists should be able to: Explain the mechanism of action and indications of common pharmacological treatments for reflux and GORD  Describe step-up and step-down GORD management using non-pharmacological strategies, over-the counter and prescription options