Which medication is often prescribed to treat GERD?

Omeprazole is a medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). It works by inhibiting the proton pump in the stomach lining, which decreases the production of stomach acid. This reduction in acid is beneficial for individuals suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), as it helps to relieve symptoms associated with the condition, such as heartburn and regurgitation. By lowering stomach acidity, omeprazole effectively heals the esophagus and prevents further damage caused by acid reflux.

The other medications listed serve different purposes: Metformin is primarily used to manage blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes, atorvastatin is a cholesterol-lowering medication that works by inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, and furosemide is a diuretic used to treat fluid retention and high blood pressure. Thus, omeprazole is specifically targeted for GERD treatment, making it the appropriate choice in this context.