Heartburn & Indigestion Relief

Heartburn is a burning sensation rising from the stomach into the chest or throat, caused by stomach acid travelling back up through the oesophagus. It is one of the most common digestive complaints in Ireland and frequently worsens after large meals, spicy or fatty foods, alcohol, or when lying down. It is also especially common during pregnancy, when the growing uterus puts pressure on the stomach.

Heartburn medicines fall into four main types. Antacids such as calcium carbonate work quickly by neutralising excess stomach acid, suiting occasional or after-meal relief. Alginate-based liquids form a protective barrier on top of stomach contents and are commonly chosen for reflux that reaches the throat. H2 blockers like famotidine reduce how much acid the stomach produces and typically take effect within an hour. Proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole offer longer-lasting effect and suit frequent or persistent heartburn.

The range at Leahy's Pharmacy includes tablets, liquids, and chewables from established brands. If heartburn occurs more than twice a week, is accompanied by difficulty swallowing, or does not respond to over-the-counter products, a pharmacist or GP consultation is advisable. Browse the options below to find the format that suits your routine.

15 products

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best relief for heartburn? +
The best option depends on how often heartburn occurs and what triggers it. For occasional symptoms after meals, antacids such as calcium carbonate work within minutes. For more frequent heartburn, H2 blockers like famotidine or proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole offer longer-lasting effect. Alginate-based liquids suit cases where reflux reaches the throat, particularly at night. If you are unsure which fits your symptoms, our pharmacist can help match a product.
What are the 7 signs of heartburn? +
Common signs include: a burning sensation in the chest or behind the breastbone, especially after eating; an acidic or sour taste at the back of the throat; a feeling of food coming back up (regurgitation); discomfort that worsens when lying down or bending over; difficulty or pain when swallowing; a persistent dry cough or hoarse voice; and nausea after meals. If swallowing is painful or symptoms persist, speak with your GP.
How to stop heartburn in 5 minutes? +
For fast onset, antacids such as calcium carbonate typically begin to neutralise stomach acid within minutes of being chewed or dissolved. Sitting upright, sipping water, and avoiding lying down also help while the medicine takes effect. H2 blockers and PPIs work more gradually and are not designed for immediate relief. If symptoms come on suddenly and severely, or include chest pain unrelated to eating, seek medical advice rather than relying on over-the-counter products.
What helps heartburn fast at night? +
Night-time heartburn is often triggered by lying flat after a late or large meal. Alginate-based liquids are commonly chosen for night-time reflux because they form a gel-like raft on top of stomach contents to limit acid travelling up the oesophagus. Eating earlier in the evening, raising the head of the bed, and avoiding alcohol or spicy foods close to bedtime also help. If night-time heartburn occurs more than twice a week, speak with your pharmacist or GP.