Dear Johanna, Please check with your doctor about how to manage your GERD symptoms after a meal. Prevacid and the other brands of medications are also called Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPI's). The PPI's are time released and need an empty stomach before a meal to work the best. The PPI medication should be taken every day, even if symptoms are not present. There is some evidence that they provide some benefits if taken as needed. Some doctors are able to reduce the medication from daily to as needed and still have control over the GERD symptoms. Your doctor will know what is best for you. Keep in mind that some doctors also prescribe the PPI medications to reduce/eliminate the damage to the esophagus and prescribe additional medication for break through symptoms as needed. It is always important to monitor your diet and symptoms. A friend of mine said the oil and vinegar dressing she ate on her salad every day was just not working. When she stopped using the dressing, she didn't have her usual coughing and burning throat after lunch any more. Good luck! Jan Gambino