Key takeaways
Alka-Seltzer (citric acid/aspirin/sodium bicarbonate) and lansoprazole (Prevacid) are both used to treat heartburn, but they work in different ways and are used for different conditions. Alka-Seltzer combines antacids and aspirin to quickly neutralize stomach acid and relieve pain, making it suitable for short-term relief of heartburn, indigestion, and headaches. It is available over-the-counter and is taken as needed, typically every 4 to 6 hours. However, it contains aspirin, which can cause stomach bleeding and is not recommended for children under 12 or pregnant women. On the other hand, lansoprazole (Prevacid) is a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces the amount of acid produced in the stomach. It is used for longer-term treatment of conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stomach ulcers, and erosive esophagitis. Lansoprazole is available both over-the-counter and by prescription, and it is usually taken once daily. It takes a few days to start working and is not suitable for immediate relief. Long-term use of Lansoprazole can lead to risks like bone fractures and low magnesium levels. Unlike Alka-Seltzer, lansoprazole does not contain aspirin.
