53% OF RESPONDENTS STILL REACHING FOR SHORT-ACTING TREATMENTS FOR HEARTBURN, NEW RESEARCH REVEALS

Nexium Control, the UK’s number one selling heartburn product for 24-hour protection1, has commissioned research to explore consumer attitudes to heartburn awareness of the different products on the market in Great Britain and Ireland (1,500 UK and 500 IE respondents). The research found that 53% of respondents usually opt for short-acting treatments to heartburn2, despite longer-acting products being able to provide relief over a 24-hour period.  

The research from Nexium Control revealed that 54% of people surveyed wished there was a product that managed symptoms for longer3, with 55% of respondents agreeing that short-acting treatments only last a maximum of five hours4. To help their patients understand there are longer-acting options available, pharmacists can provide information and guidance on treatments, such as proton pump inhibitors like Nexium Control. 

Shorter-acting products, which shoppers often reach for, work by either neutralising the acid already in the stomach or by forming a layer that floats to the top of the stomach, stopping acid rising into the food pipe. Double action treatments which utilise both methods are also available. Containing esomeprazole, Nexium Control reduces the production of stomach acid for up to 24-hour protection with just one pill, treating the cause and symptoms of heartburn – allowing time for the oesophagus to recover from the acid irritation.  

Dr Kate Fabrikant, Medical Lead Northern Europe, Haleon, said: “At this time of year, more people will be looking to spend time with their friends and families, going out for dinner, to the pub or office Christmas parties. It is important that pharmacists and their teams have the most up-to-date knowledge and products available to treat heartburn and acid reflux, particularly during times when these types of issues might flare up. 

“Our research shows that 45% of respondents would look to pharmacists for treatments for minor health issues5, and Nexium Control is committed to ensuring they are aware of how the condition presents in patients and understand the role which PPIs can play when managing heartburn symptoms. The Haleon Health Partner portal is available for more information and support on how to provide appropriate over the counter treatment recommendations.” 

Research commissioned by Nexium in 2022 demonstrated an appetite amongst pharmacy teams for a branded pharmacy-only tablet in the larger pack format. Findings showed that 8-in-10 respondents (pharmacy members) said a larger pack size would be useful6 to patients who suffer from frequent heartburn. Nexium Control directly addressed this need and filled the gap by launching a larger 28 pack format, allowing the convenience of having a second course of 14 tablets on hand, should symptoms reoccur at a later date. With this larger pack size, patients also get improved value with a lower cost per tablet.