They are both proton pump inhibitors so they both have the same basic mechanism of action but may work slightly differently in different people. Some people will swear to one more than the other and vice versa. If you have a choice - I prefer to try the least expensive option first. And, while you would think that would be the same for everyone - it isn't necessarily. Some insurances prefer one over the other. Finally, the manufacturers will say theirs works better over another but again, it might really depend on the specific situation or condition the study was looking at.

You can read more about the meds at:

http://www.healthcentral.com/acid-reflux/find-drug.html?ic=4019

Best of Luck - Stephanie