Zantac vs. PPIs...any difference?

[carolm]

Hello to everyone,

I have been using Dexilant since getting my diagnosis of LC in August. In October, after reading here how PPI meds are problematic for us, I went to an OTC acid reducer as needed. I had to get back on Dexilant while staying with my dad in the hospital, but once I was back home I opted for an OTC acid reducer again with no issues (sometimes just Tums or a Zantac for a more severe case).
I started Zantac daily a few days ago. When reading up on PPIs I see that Zantac is considered a Histamine-2 blocker.
My question for the group is: is Zantac less problematic for us or is any type of acid reducer something we should avoid?

Thanks so much,
Carol

[tex]

Hi Carol,

Zantac is much, much safer for anyone than a PPI. To understand the negative effects that a PPI has on the lower esophageal sphincter, please read the topic at the following link, (unless you've already read it, of course):

http://www.perskyfarms.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=14293

If you're taking those medications to treat either heartburn or acid reflux, (or GERD), and you haven't read these posts before, please read my post in these threads:

http://www.perskyfarms.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=14623

http://www.perskyfarms.com/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=14245

In general, it's probably best to also avoid acid reducers in the long run, because of the risk of developing a bacterial imbalance/infection, and a tendency to promote poor digestion, but if an acid reducer is needed, then Zantac is relatively safe to take, certainly in the short term. The reason why suppressing acid in the stomach is not a good idea, is because it's there for two very important reasons - to begin the digestive process, and to kill most types of bacteria that might happen to be present in food.

Some of us, however, have mast cell issues, associated with MC, and an antihistamine such as Zantac can often provide substantial relief of mast cell degranulation issues in those cases. IOW, sometimes we have to do what we have to do, and H-2 blockers are a relatively safe medication to take - far, far safer than any PPI, for example.

Tex

[carolm]

Thanks for the links and the information, Tex. I did do a search of our MC site but didn't find an answer to my specific question. GERD/heartburn is not a big issue for me so I'm thinking I can deal with it in a more symptomatic way when it does happen. I have already been avoiding acidic foods and drinks and I won't eat after 7:00pm. However I did not know that sleeping on the left side would help. Now I have another tool in my 'bag of tricks'. Thanks again for your help.

Carol

[MBombardier]

Carol, I had heartburn 24/7 until I achieved remission. I think there are several of us who have discovered that heartburn can be an indication that we are not yet in remission or that we have eaten something we shouldn't. Avoiding acidic drinks is actually counter-productive, as it is the acid that causes the sphincter between the esophagus and stomach to close or remain closed so there is no reflux.

I used Zantac along with Zyrtec (so an H1 and an H2 blocker together) when I was overcoming a flare due to high histamine foods when I first discovered that I reacted to them. I was able to let go of the Zantac, although I still take a Zyrtec every day. I did experience some increased heartburn for several days after stopping the Zantac, but nothing that Kombucha (an acidic drink) and an occasional Tums could not handle. And now, as I said, I only have heartburn as a warning that if I continue eating something, I will have a flare.

[GF-aka Oma]

When I achieved remission I lost the need for Acid reducers for a while~But i didn't know Zantac was better. After reading your article I will take a closer look at what I take. Most he of the time I drink green tea for that anyway, when that fails I'll use an acid reducer.