What is the first-line drug class commonly used for the treatment of GERD?

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are recognized as the first-line treatment for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). They work by effectively inhibiting gastric acid secretion, providing quicker and more sustained relief than other options. These medications are particularly beneficial for patients experiencing moderate to severe symptoms or esophagitis due to acid reflux, as they promote healing of the esophagus lining and relieve symptoms more effectively than H2 antagonists.

While H2 antagonists, which reduce stomach acid production, are helpful in some cases of GERD and may be used for mild symptoms, they are not considered the most effective first-line treatment compared to PPIs, especially in persistent symptoms or more severe disease manifestations. Antacids are generally used for quick, short-term relief and do not address the underlying mechanism of acid secretion. Antibiotics have no direct role in treating GERD unless a specific infection, such as H. pylori gastritis, is present, and thus they are not applicable as a typical treatment strategy for GERD symptoms.