How Hiccup Medications Work

Hiccups are caused by involuntary contractions of the diaphragm, which can be triggered by various factors such as eating too quickly or drinking carbonated beverages. To treat hiccups, medications aim to relax the diaphragm and restore normal breathing patterns.

Gold Standard: Antacids

The gold standard for treating hiccup symptoms is antacids, which work by neutralizing stomach acid and reducing inflammation in the esophagus. This helps to calm down the diaphragm and prevent further contractions. Examples of antacids include:

• Tums
• Rolaids
• Mylicon

Alternatives: Reducing Acid Production

For patients who experience frequent or severe hiccups, alternative medications can be prescribed to reduce acid production in the stomach. These include:

• H2 Receptor Antagonists (H2RAs), such as ranitidine and famotidine
• Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs), such as omeprazole and lansoprazole
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) medications, which help to reduce acid reflux and alleviate symptoms of GERD

These medications can be used in conjunction with antacids or as a standalone treatment, depending on the severity of the hiccup symptoms.