Several over-the-counter and prescription medications are used to treat and improve GERD symptoms, but certain medication can also make GERD symptoms worse. Examples of medications that have been linked to a worsening of GERD symptoms include benzodiazepines, calcium channel blockers (blood pressure medications), asthma medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS; ibuprofen, aspirin), and tricyclic antidepressants.[1]
Can medications make GERD worse?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Certain medications — including benzodiazepines, calcium channel blockers, asthma medications, nonsteriodal anti-inflammatory drugs, and tricyclic antidepressants — can worsen gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms although many of these medications are also used to treat the condition. It's important to be aware of these potential side effects when managing GERD.