When should stomach medications be taken?

Gastric pain, bloating, and gastritis are associated with factors such as impaired gastric motility and improper diet—including alcohol consumption, which can irritate the stomach. Medications for treating gastritis are typically taken before meals, and treatment must strictly follow the physician’s instructions. Commonly prescribed drugs include gastric acid inhibitors, gastric mucosal protectants, and prokinetic agents (e.g., domperidone) to enhance gastric motility. During medication therapy and recovery, alcohol consumption and smoking must be avoided; overeating, binge eating, and consumption of spicy or cold foods—known gastric irritants—should also be avoided to prevent exacerbation of symptoms.