Gastro-oesphageal reflux disease (GORD) occurs due to the inappropriate relaxation of the lower oesophageal sphincter. This permits the contents of the stomach to pass into the oesphagus. Reflux may lead to oesphagitis which while disrupting oesphageal motility, can reduce sphincter tone further, thus leading to a worsening of reflux.

Depending upon the severity of symptoms, the presence of complications and any associated illness, the active drug treatment of GORD generally begins after milk thickening agents and feeding advice have failed. Thickening agents for milk such as Carobel or Magic Mix may be helpful. Gaviscon can be helpful in simple reflux without complications.

Pro-kinetic agents are generally not helpful, medications such as Domperidone have been proven to be particularly helpful. 

Proton pump inhibitors are sometimes introduced to patients who have severe disease in order to reduce gastric acid secretion.