Prescription PPIs like Nexium, Dexilant, Prilosec, Zegerid, Prevacid, Protonix, Aciphex and Vimovo inhibit acid production in your stomach and are routinely used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition affecting about 20% of the U.S. population.4 OTC versions like Prilosec OTC, Zegerid OTC and Prevacid 24HR are also available.

Once prescribed, your doctor may keep you on a PPI drug for years, despite label warnings suggesting they be used only for short periods. One of the potential ramifications of long-term use of heartburn medication is osteoporosis. In the Nutrition Facts video above,5 Dr. Michael Greger reviews the evidence for this.