Long term effects of meds and LES question

  I've been recently diagnosed with GERD. Zantac, 150 mg 2x per day
  seems to help considerably.  The dr. says to use it indefinitely but
  I am concerned about long term effects of this.  Does one become
  acclimated to it and never get off the meds?  Will it damage my
  liver or kidneys to stay on it forever?
  Also- I have a diagnosis of LES weakness.  Is there a way to strengthen
  this muscle once it has been weakened?  My dr. said that there is
  medication that will help but that once you stop it, the muscle goes
  back to the relaxed state, so the meds are not indicated in my case.
  What's the scoop on those meds?  Thanks!
____________
Dear Lisa,
Esopahgeal reflux is a common problem affecting about 10% of the population.  For most people, symptoms are intermittent and can be attributed to eating certain foods, too much alcohol etc.  Some people, however, have recurrent symptoms that require therpay.  Your physician is correct that this is a chronic lifelong problem, although the symptoms can vary in severity.  Medical therapy consists of a drug to inhibit acid secretion and often a second drug to increase the pressure in the lower esophageal sphincter.  Treatment usually lasts 8-12 weeks and is then astoppesd.  If the symptoms recur, then therapy is continued indefinitely.  Zantac is a sfae medication and should not damage your liver or kidneys.  Also, you should not acclimiate to the drug effect.
Surgery is the only way to permanently increase the sphincter tone.  Some people are unhappy taking medications indefinitely.  If you are chronically symptomatic and dislike the need for longterm medical care, then surgery may be appropriate for you.  Before considering this option, however, your physician would need to exclude esophageal motility disorders.
This information is presented for educational purposes only.  always consult your personal physician for specific medical questions.
HFHSM.D.-rf
*keywords: esophageal reflux
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