Antacids are medicines or drugs that
neutralize stomach acid.
Uses of Antacids
Antacids are used to do the following:
- Relieve acid indigestion
- Trating upset stomach
- Treating sour stomach
- Relieving heartburn
Ingredients in Antacids
Antacids contain the following, alone or in
various combinations:
- Aluminum Hydroxide
- Calcium Carbonate
- Magnesium Hydroxide
- Sodium Bicarbonate
- Simethicone
How Does Antacids Work?
Antacids are divided into two groups: One
group, that work by chemical neutralization of gastric acid, for e.g.,
sodium bicarbonate; and the other group that work by adsorption of the acid
(non-absorbable antacids), e.g., calcium and magnesium salts. Antacids are
taken by mouth. They are available in the form of tablets (regular and
chewable), lozenge and syrup. They work by neutralizing excess stomach acid.
Antacids differ in how effective they are depending upon the ingredients.
There are certain antacids containing Magnesium Hydroxide and Sodium
Bicarbonate, which dissolve rapidly in the stomach and bring the fastest
relief. Antacids that contain Calcium Carbonate or Aluminum dissolve more
slowly and can take up to half an hour to begin working. The longer an
antacid stays in the stomach, the longer it works. Those that contain
Calcium Carbonate or Aluminum work longer than those that contain Sodium
Bicarbonate or Magnesium. Also, it is advisable to take any kind of antacid
after a meal, instead of on an empty stomach. This provides longer-lasting
relief because the medicine stays in the stomach longer.
Popular Brands
- Alka-Seltzer
- Maalox
- Mylanta
- Tums
- Rolaids
- Gaviscon
- Aluminum hydroxide
- Prilosec
- Gelusil
- Magaldrate
Generic forms are also available. These products can be bought without
a prescription.
Related Article
Side Effects of Antacids