Medslant Acid Reflux Newsletter

Soft Drinks and Sleeping Pills a Precription for Acid Reflux

A recent study of 15,000 adults suggests that not only carbonated beverages but sleeping pills add to the incidence of nighttime heartburn. Soft drinksŐ high acidity level is the likely cause of the 31% heartburn increase. Regular use of the prescription sleeping pill benzodiazepine is linked to a 65% heartburn incidence increase. Benzodiazepine is found in brands Ativan, Halcoln, Valium and Zanax. Recommended solutions include limiting soft drinks to one or two a day but not before bed time, and talking to your doctor about different sleep medication if needed.

The debate about the safe use of NSAIDs (non steroidal anti-inflamatory drugs) continues. The goal of all therapy be it drugs or lifestyle change is to find a solution where the benefits of the drug or behavior outweigh the risks. First thought of as the solution to GI problems associated with non-selective NASIDs like ibuprofen, non selective NASIDs work by blocking two enzymes. Cycloxygense (COX) 1 and 2 . COX 1 produces fatty acids which help protect the stomach lining and help blood clot. COX 2 produces fatty acids associated with inflammation. Everyone has a different history, different behavior patterns, and different risk factors. You and your doctor need to discuss what will work best for you with the most minimal negative side effects.

I am often asked for sources of good information on GERD and heartburn. You can Google GERD and find a lifetime of reading material. A good start is www.fdhn.org. This is the website for The Foundation for Digestive Health and Nutrition and is the foundation of the AGA (American Gastroenterological Association) This site also leads you to a magazine called Digestive Health & Nutrition.

Please keep the phone calls and emails coming to 1.800.346.1850 or customerservice@medslant.com. I love hearing from you.



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