NICE GUIDANCE
The NICE clinical guideline [CG184] published in September 2014, Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and dyspepsia in adults: investigation and management says the following:
NICE CLINICAL GUIDELINE
"Community pharmacists should offer initial and ongoing help for people with symptoms of dyspepsia. This includes advice about lifestyle changes, using over-the-counter medication, help with prescribed drugs and advice about when to consult a GP."
"Community pharmacists should record adverse reactions to treatment and may participate in primary care medication review clinics."
OTC ANTACIDS AND TREATMENTS
OTC antacids and treatments can be tried on a short-term basis. Customers should also be asked about their medication.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause symptoms, but there are many other prescription medicines that may also cause gastrointestinal side effects such as alpha-blockers, anticholinergics, aspirin, benzodiazepines, betablockers, bisphosphonates, calcium-channel blockers, corticosteroids, nitrates, theophylline and tricyclic antidepressants.5