Dosage for reflux

Doctor, thanks for your timely replies.  I am currently on  30 mg Prevacid (my doctor gave me office handout) once per day, and due to reading your column, I started the Zantac (150 mg - OTC).  Is Prevacid the drug of choice today?  I notice a lot of postings on the forum refer to it.  If this is the most effective drug, what is the generally prescribed dosage?  You suggest taking a PPI twice a day.  Would you recommend two 15mg Prevacid or two 30 mg Prevacid?  Also, what is the recommended dosage for the Zantac?  I am still having some breakthrough with my current regimen (i.e., one 30 mg Prevacid in the a.m., and one 150 mg Zantac in the p.m.

Thanks so much and I look forward to your answer.

[Ratnakar ., MD]

Hi,
There are five PPI approved by FDA.
All are of almost equal efficacy.
The latest addition is esomeprazole (nexium).
Some of the patients get relief with once daily dosage. But many require twice daily dosage.Once you get the relief you can shift to once daily dosage again.
Since you are not getting relief you may take Prevacid 30 mg twice daily along with 150 mg of zantac bedtime.
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The information provided is for patients’ education only and is not a medical advice. Always consult your personal physician for complete evaluation of your health problem.

- Ratnakar Kini M.D.