GERD: Can certain medications make it worse?

Date Updated: 01/06/2022

Answer Section

Certain medications and dietary supplements can irritate the lining of your esophagus, causing heartburn pain. Others can increase the severity of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a chronic condition in which stomach acid flows back (refluxes) into your esophagus. This backwash of acid causes irritation and inflammation of the lining of your esophagus.

Medications and dietary supplements that can irritate your esophagus and cause heartburn pain include:

Antibiotics, such as tetracycline and clindamycin
Bisphosphonates taken orally, such as alendronate (Fosamax), ibandronate (Boniva) and risedronate (Actonel, Atelvia)
Iron supplements
Quinidine
Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and aspirin
Potassium supplements

Medications and dietary supplements that can increase acid reflux and worsen GERD include:

Anticholinergics, such as oxybutynin (Ditropan XL), prescribed for overactive bladder and irritable bowel syndrome
Tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline, doxepin, others)
Calcium channel blockers, statins, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and nitrates used for high blood pressure and heart disease
Narcotics (opioids), such as codeine, and those containing hydrocodone and acetaminophen (Norco, Vicodin, others)
Progesterone
Sedatives or tranquilizers, including benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium) and temazepam (Restoril)
Theophylline (Elixophyllin, Theochron)

If you have GERD, ask your doctor if medications you take may affect your symptoms.