Heartburn & Indigestion

Relieving indigestion

Indigestion is common problem, affecting up to 40% (4 in 10) adults in New Zealand every year. Let’s take a look at what indigestion is and how you can manage it with and without medications.

What is indigestion?

Indigestion (sometimes called dyspepsia) is a pain or uncomfortable feeling in the upper-middle part of your abdomen. You might feel too full after eating or unable to finish a meal because you feel full. You could also experience pain or burning in the upper region of your stomach. Some people also experience nausea or heartburn as well.
While it’s common, it is still not known exactly what causes indigestion.

Lifestyle changes and remedies for indigestion

Before turning to medications there are several changes you can make to your lifestyle that may help alleviate indigestion. You can try:

Checking with your doctor to see if any medication you are taking could be contributing, such as some types of pain relievers
Avoiding alcohol, coffee and smoking
Weight loss
Eating smaller meals
Avoiding foods that trigger your indigestion (e.g. fatty foods).

Medications for managing indigestion

Here are five common that you can buy over-the-counter in your local pharmacy.

Simple antacids

Antacids work by neutralising the acid produced by your stomach. The active ingredient that achieves this can be calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate or aluminium hydroxide which are all effective remedies for indigestion. They work best when taken 1–3 hours after a meal.

Alginates (rafting agents)

Gaviscon is an example of an alginate-containing product. The sodium alginate in Gaviscon acts as a ‘raft’ that forms on the top of your stomach to help keep stomach contents in their place. Gaviscon Dual Action Liquid starts to work from 4 minutes* and lasts up to 4 hours**.

Histamine H2-receptor antagonists

These products are also called H2-antagonists or H2-blockers. H2-antagonists work by turning off chemical receptors in the cells of your stomach so that they reduce the production of acid. They can be bought over-the-counter, or are prescribed by a doctor.

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)

These products also reduce the production of stomach acid. However, PPIs work in a different way to H2-antagonists. They block the acid pumps, which are the source of acid in the stomach. Some PPIs can be bought over-the-counter, while others are only available with a prescription.

Not all products may be suitable for everyone with indigestion. So if you are in any doubt about your symptoms or what indigestion may help, speak to your doctor.

This medicine may not be right for you. Read the label before purchase. Follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional.

*Strugula V, et al. 2010. [Sponsored by RB].
**Chevrel B, 1980. [Sponsored by RB].

RB-M-09958

NA 12960

First published: 12th March 2021

Last updated: 31st July 2024

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