Many different conditions might cause stomach pain. The cause of the discomfort determines treatment options. This post will look at the various drugs and treatments for stomach discomfort, both over-the-counter and prescription.

We’ll also discuss alternative remedies, common reasons, and when to seek medical attention for stomach pain.

Medication Types for Stomach Pain

Bloating, indigestion, nausea, and reflux are all symptoms of stomach pain, which can be acute, stabbing, unbearable, or dull. Treatments for stomach discomfort must address the underlying reason. If you’re unsure what’s causing your stomach discomfort, or if it’s severe or lasts a long time, consult a doctor.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications

Some symptoms may be relieved by over-the-counter stomach discomfort drugs.

• Simethicone (Gas-X, Mylanta) may alleviate bloating and gas pain.

• Antacids and acid reducers such as famotidine (Pepcid, Zantac 360) can help with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acid reflux, and other indigestion symptoms such as belching, stomach fullness, or throat burning.

• Stool softeners and laxatives such as ducosate (Colace) and bisacodyl (Dulcolax) can help reduce constipation-related symptoms of fullness, bloating, and pain.

• Loperamide (Imodium) can alleviate intestinal cramping and pain caused by diarrhea. Most OTC medicines to relieve stomach discomfort should not be taken long-term. 

Consult a doctor if your symptoms appear suddenly or persist for an extended period. Ulcers, GERD, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, and Celiac disease necessitate treatment techniques that over-the-counter (OTC) drugs cannot address.

Prescription Medications

You may require prescription medication if your stomach issue is caused by a persistent disease or an autoimmune ailment.

• Prednisone and other steroids help relieve inflammation and pain in the stomach and intestines caused by chronic diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. While steroids do not cure the ailment, they can be used to lower inflammation while other therapies allow the GI system to heal, or they may be used to provide relief from intense discomfort.

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) such as lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec), and esomeprazole (Nexium) may be recommended for ulcers, GERD or other disorders made worse by excess stomach acid. • If H. pylori are causing an ulcer or if other bacteria are identified to be causing stomach pain, antibiotics may be administered. Clarithromycin and metronidazole are two common antibiotics administered for this purpose.