If You Go Over-the-Counter (OTC) For fast heartburn relief, many people turn to chewable antacids with calcium such as Tums or Rolaids. They work by neutralizing stomach acid and are useful for occasional, mild heartburn. Symptoms can lessen within minutes. Mylanta and Pepto-Bismol offer liquid relief for occasional and non-severe heartburn symptoms. Like Tums and Rolaids, they can quickly provide heartburn relief and act as a buffer. Unlike the other medications, these provide a protective barrier to help block acid irritation.