Pharmaceutical Drug Manufacturers

16 Dec 2010 Antacid medicines have been in use for a very long time and many people consider them to be harmless medicines taken to neutralize stomach acid. But this is not true. Any medicine which taken for a longer time or which when not taken properly is bound to result in certain unwanted side effects. The same is true with antacids as well. In few cases, it has been found that the side effects of antacids have created even greater problems than the condition the medicine was given to treat.

First of all, stomach acidity should not be considered as a major problem that needs to be neutralized by the use of antacids. Stomach acidity is a natural process which helps in the digestion of proteins. It protects our body from germs in water and food and it also helps in the growth of friendly intestinal flora. As a result of this, it is essential that no immediate treatment needs to be given when there is acidity. Medications should be provided only when the stomach acidity becomes unbearable. Altering the body's natural acid balance has consequences.

Problems Associated with Antacids

Depending on the ingredients in antacids, there are certain side effects or problems associated with antacids which are given below:

For aluminum-containing antacids

• Bone pain
• Constipation
• Discomfort
• Loss of appetite
• Mood changes
• Muscle weakness
• Swelling of wrists or ankles
• Weight loss

For calcium-containing antacids

• Constipation
• Difficult in urination
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Mood changes
• Muscle pain
• Nausea
• Nervousness
• Slow breathing
• Bad taste
• Tiredness

For magnesium-containing antacids

• Painful urination
• Dizziness
• Discomfort
• Irregular heartbeat
• Loss of appetite
• Mood changes
• Muscle weakness
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Unusual Weight loss

For sodium bicarbonate-containing antacids

• Frequent urge to urinate
• Headache
• Appetite loss
• Muscle pain
• Nausea
• Nervousness
• Slow breathing
• Swelling of feet
• Unpleasant taste

As your body adjusts to the medicine, these side effects go away. But if any of the side effects continue, check with your health care professional.
Source: Mayoclinic.com