Final answer:
In the treatment of Gastroesophageal reflux in infants and children, both Ranitidine, an H₂-receptor antagonist, and Omeprazole, a proton-pump inhibitor, are effective acid-reducing medications. Antacids neutralize stomach acid but do not prevent reflux. Lifestyle changes are also beneficial in managing GERD symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gastroesophageal reflux in infants and children is a condition where the stomach’s contents flow back into the esophagus. Among the treatment options provided - Ranitidine, Omeprazole, Metoclopramide, and Simethicone, both Ranitidine and Omeprazole are effective in reducing the amount of acid produced by the stomach. Ranitidine is an H₂-receptor antagonist, and Omeprazole is a proton-pump inhibitor, both widely used to treat conditions such as GERD.
Antacids, another treatment option, work by neutralizing excess stomach acid but do not prevent the actual reflux. Lifestyle changes are also recommended to manage GERD, as these can reduce the amount and acidity of the stomach's reflux into the esophagus.
Omeprazole and other proton-pump inhibitors have been studied to see if they reduce the risk of developing GERD. In a study example, after 3 months, fewer participants taking the PPI developed GERD compared to those who didn't take the PPI, though the difference was not statistically significant.