Treatment of Gastroesophageal Reflux in Children and Adolescents

The treatment of reflux depends on the child's symptoms and age. When a child or teenager is uncomfortable, has difficulty sleeping or eating, or fails to grow, the doctor or nurse may first suggest a trial of medication to decrease the amount of acid made in the stomach. One class of medications called H2-blockers includes cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), famotidine (Pepcid), and nizatidine (Axid). Another class is proton-pump inhibitors such as esomeprazole (Nexium), omeprazole (Prilosec), lansoprazole (Prevacid), rabeprazole (Aciphex), and pantoprazole (Protonix).*

* The authors of this fact sheet do not specifically endorse the use of drugs for children that have not been tested in children ("off label" use). Such a determination can only be made under the recommendation of the treating health care provider.

If the child continues to have symptoms despite the initial treatment, tests may be ordered to help find better treatments. It is rare for children to require surgery for GER. However, surgery may be the best option for children who have severe symptoms that do not respond to any treatment.

Your child's doctor or nurse can discuss the treatment options with you and help your child feel well again.

Additional suggestions are

• Have your child or teenager eat smaller meals more often.
  
  
• Avoid eating 2 to 3 hours before bed.
  
  
• Elevate the head of the bed 30 degrees.
  
  
• Avoid carbonated drinks, chocolate, caffeine, and foods that are high in fat or contain a lot of acid (citrus fruits) or spices.

source: http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/gerinchildren/index.htm