I've had the same problem with R-lipoic acid, but didn't realize that's what it was until I'd already burned my esophagus very badly. I've stopped taking it altogether until it heals. I think I was taking more than necessary as well--400mg. When my esophagus heals I'll try the Gaviscon 20 minutes before and only take 100mg. Also, some of the things I'm being tested for have GERD as a symptom--like Sjogren's and paraneoplastic antibodies, so it could be that as well.

How much apple cider vinegar do you take per day for GERD, Stacey? I've heard of doing this, but I wonder how an acid can help when acid normally burns my esophagus.

Also Stacey, if you look at my first posting, there's a long list of good supplements to take, (many of which I learned about while lurking here before joining). These things can help as well. I got suddenly much worse when I stopped everything for a few days, but I'm improving again since I went back on everything except the R-lipoic acid.