I had GERD probably for at least 15 years before being treated, which is why I have so much damage to my throat. I was then on Pantoprazole twice a day for almost 5 years. I did have a positive response to the two used in conjunction. My doctor tried just cutting down the dosage of the Pantoprazole at first and I started throwing up again. I then had the hiatal hernia repair. Right after the surgery is when the pulmonologist switched me over to the combination. It appears that it worked for me. However, it depends on how severe your case is also. My case was very severe that even certain smells would make me throw up. I would try Pepcid for a month or two and see what relief you get and if not then ask for the stronger Pantoprazole. From my understanding Pantoprazole causes more damage in the long run, but talk to your transplant team as they know what interactions the medicines have and other complications such as damage to your liver or kidneys.