illnesshacker: Medical information and health advice you can trust.

Antacids; Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Drug Interactions

Antacids are over-the-counter medications that help neutralize stomach acid. They work differently from other acid reducers such as H2-receptor blockers or proton pump inhibitors, which work by reducing or preventing the secretion of stomach acid. Antacids usually come as a liquid, chewable gummy or tablet, or tablet that you dissolve in water to drink. Antacids are distinct from acid-reducing drugs like H₂-receptor antagonists or proton pump inhibitors and they do not kill the bacteria Helicobacter pylori, which causes most ulcers.

Mechanism of Action of Antacids

When excessive amounts of acids are produced in the stomach the natural mucous barrier that protects the lining of the stomach can damage the esophagus in people with acid reflux. Antacids contain alkaline ions that chemically neutralize stomach gastric acid, reducing damage and relieving painFamotidine is an H2 (histamine)-receptor antagonist, also known as an H2-blocker. Histamine is a chemical in some cells of the body that causes the production of acid in the stomach. H2-blockers inhibit histamine action and therefore reduce gastric secretion or the amount of acid produced. Magnesium hydroxide and calcium carbonate are both antacids that function by neutralizing the excess gastric acid.

Indications of Antacids

Heartburn
Acid indigestion
Sour stomach
Upset stomach due to these symptoms
Pressure and bloating commonly referred to as gas
Acid reflux, which can include regurgitation, bitter taste, persistent dry cough, pain when you lie down, and trouble swallowing
Heartburn which is a burning sensation in your chest or throat caused by acid reflux
Indigestion, which is a pain in your upper gut that can feel like gas or bloating
Antacids are available over the counter and are taken by mouth to quickly relieve occasional heartburn,
The major symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease and also indigestion.
Treatment with antacids alone is symptomatic and only justified for minor symptoms.
Antacids are distinct from acid-reducing drugs like H₂-receptor antagonists or proton pump inhibitors and they do not kill the bacteria Helicobacter pylori, which causes most ulcers

You Might Also Like Gout; Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

Contra-Indications of Antacids

Kidney disease with a reduction in kidney function
Diarrhea
Low amount of phosphate in the blood
Hemorrhoids
Impacted Stool
Stomach or Intestine Blockage
Constipation
Aluminum Poisoning
Chronic Diarrhea
Chronic heart failure
Severe renal impairment
Visible Water Retention
Kidney Problems Causing a Decreased Amount of Urine to be Passed
The high amount of sodium in the blood

Allergy to the following ingredient

Sodium Bicarbonate
Magnesium
Aluminum Containing Products
Alginic Acid

Side Effects of Antacids

The most common

Common

Less common

Abdominal or stomach pain
increased or decreased appetite
joint pain
nausea
vomiting
Anxiety
cold or flu-like symptoms
constipation
increased cough
mental depression
muscle pain
rectal bleeding

Drug Interactions of Antacids

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are using any of the following prescription and nonprescription/herbal products: phosphate supplements (e.g., potassium phosphate), sodium polystyrene sulfonate.

Antacids can interfere with the absorption of many other drugs. Be sure to check with your pharmacist before taking antacids with any other medication.