DEAR READER: To my knowledge, Nexium is a slightly stronger medication than Prevacid. It also does not have a generic form and can be very expensive.

I recommend that you try over-the-counter medications, such as Pepcid or Zantac. If they do not work for you, you may wish to try Prilosec. This medication was once available by prescription only but was found to be relatively free of side effects. It is now available for over-the-counter sale. If you try these unsuccessfully, you may benefit from comparison shopping your area pharmacies as each one can have a different price for your medication.

Another option is Wal-Mart and Target pharmacies that offer $4 prescription programs. Cimetidine (Tagamet), Famotidine (Pepcid) and Ranitidine (Zantac) are all available through the program. Verify that they can offer the medication you need for $4 because some states have laws that require higher pricing while others still do not allow the product to be sold under the program.

These can be purchased over-the-counter, generally in packages of 10 or 12 pills for individuals with infrequent acid reflux. For people who need the medication daily, such as those with gastroesophageal reflux disease, these programs offer substantial savings.

Speak with your physician. He or she will need to give you a prescription for the medication which you then can take to the pharmacy of your choice. You can find more information regarding these programs online at www.walmart.com and www.target.com

To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Hiatal Hernia, Acid Reflux and Indigestion”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.