Question:
What are some OTC that people have used for Acid in Tummy - I'm HURTING

I'm 2 months post op, Open Proximal RNY, & for the first month I was taking Protonix for acid in my tummy, but quit when I ran out - RX was $150 & I'm on unemployment, no insurance. ANYWAY, I've been in such pain lately, I've been taking Zantac 75 OTC at twice the normal dose, which sorta helps, but OMG, not enough! Anyone have any suggestions?? I feel like I'm dying! I've vomited a few times because of the pain, but am trying really hard to keep it under control. HELP!    — LionGirl2k (posted on November 7, 2002)

November 7, 2002
Hi there, I took the walmart equiv. og Zantac. ($9.99 for 80 pills)I ate those like chips until i got my gallbladder out. Are you sure it is not something else that may needs to be looked at. I wish you all the best.
   — sarah C.

November 7, 2002
1st, you need to find out what is causeing this. Talk to your doc and make sure that you do not have a problem. 2nd, ask your doc for samples, or if he can contact the drug rep for ample supply for you. Most drug reps will do this for the docs they are trying to win over. 3rd, be very careful at taking more then the recomeneded dose of any medications, even over the counter meds, they can be harmfull if you are not careful. Check with your doc before you double up doses. Good Luck and feel better.
   — Vicki L.

November 7, 2002
Actually, my answer is also a question. How do you know that what is happening is acid? I have the same problem that you do. I have this bulk that comes up into my espophogus and it burns and causes pain. Is this acid? It makes me want to throw up! Let me know if this is what you are experiencing. God Bless and I hope the problem will be over for you soon!
   — Stephanie B.

November 7, 2002
I know that the acid can be created in the pouch because my doctor prescribed 2 medicines for me to cure it! Maybe I am off base! Any experts out there that can help?
   — Stephanie B.

November 7, 2002
THANK YOU to everyone who answered so far! I did call the surgeon & they agreed that doubling up on Zantac may help. I'm going to a doc tomorrow to talk to them about it & possibly get some free meds cause the Zantac works OK, but not as well as I'd hope. I've also gotten some other suggestions from older WLS'er about OTC's that may help. To the person who asked if I was sure this was the problem, no I don't know if this is really the issue. But taking the Zantac at double dose does give me some temp relief. It may be a gallbladder issue, & I'll bring that up tomorrow when I see a doc. I'm also cutting down on coffee & hopefully that will help. I'm NOT having the reflux, phew, that went away with the surgery. This is a pain that goes from my stomach, the one that still makes & holds the acid, not my pouch, to my back. It's in the middle back & is EXCRUCIATING(sp). Time to get some Zantac in my system!
   — LionGirl2k