Antacids are medications that people can buy over the counter to help relieve heartburn and indigestion. They work by neutralizing stomach acid.
Heartburn is a burning pain that appears in the center of the chest and, sometimes, the throat. It is a common symptom of indigestion, which can also cause stomach pain and bloating.
In this article, we examine various types of antacids, their mechanisms of action, and potential side effects. We also discuss foods to avoid to minimize symptoms.
Antacids are over-the-counter (OTC) medications people may use to treat:
- indigestion
- heartburn, acid reflux or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD)
- stomach ulcers
- gastritis, which is inflammation of the stomach lining
Antacids can offer short-term relief for these symptoms, but they do not treat the underlying causes.
Antacids use a combination of calcium, magnesium, and aluminum salts as their active ingredients.
These medications work by neutralizing the acid in the stomach. They also
Some antacids include a foaming agent called alginate that floats on top of the stomach contents and prevents acid from coming into contact with the esophagus.
People can purchase antacids in various forms, including tablets, liquids, and chewable gummies. Examples of OTC antacid brands include:
- Alka-Seltzer
- Gaviscon
- Mylanta
- Rolaids
- TUMS
The active ingredients can vary according to the brand and specific product. However, common active ingredients include:
- calcium carbonate (in TUMS)
- sodium bicarbonate (in Alka-Seltzer effervescent products)
- magnesium trisilicate (in
Gaviscon chewable tablets )
Antacids differ from other types of medications that healthcare professionals may prescribe for excess acid symptoms. These
People can use antacids to help relieve occasional heartburn or indigestion. If someone needs them every day, they should see their doctor, as they may have an underlying health condition, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
A person should always read the instructions before taking antacids, as different types of antacids contain different active ingredients.
As a
Heartburn is common during pregnancy, especially when the growing uterus puts pressure on the stomach. This pressure can force stomach acid up the esophagus (food pipe), causing heartburn symptoms.
Not all antacids are suitable for use during pregnancy. People experiencing heartburn during pregnancy should speak with their doctor first about their treatment options before taking any new medications.
Acid reflux in children can have
Healthcare professionals may recommend short-term antacid use to treat mild heartburn symptoms in children. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to discuss the most appropriate treatment option.
Some people may experience side effects when taking antacids. These effects are usually associated with specific ingredients. Therefore, people may be able to reduce or eliminate side effects by switching to another brand.
Side effects associated with some antacids include:
- diarrhea, with antacids that contain magnesium
- constipation, with antacids that contain calcium or aluminum
- inhibited bone mineralization, when taking a lot of antacids that contain aluminum
- fluid retention or alkalosis, with antacids that contain sodium bicarbonate
Antacids containing aspirin carry an additional risk of bleeding problems due to the blood-thinning nature of aspirin. People at increased risk of bleeding disorders include people who:
- are over 60
- have a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems
- are taking steroid medications
- are taking anticoagulants
Antacids can affect the absorption of other medications. Sometimes, a person can resolve this by taking antacids at a different time to other medications. However, it is always best that they discuss this with a pharmacist or doctor.
Someone should talk to their doctor before taking antacids on a regular basis, particularly if they:
- have high blood pressure, kidney disease, or heart disease
- are on a low sodium diet
- take other medicines every day
- are already taking calcium
- have kidney stones
Additionally, antacids that contain aspirin can be a
Persistent symptoms of excess stomach acid could indicate a more serious condition that could worsen without treatment. The American College of Gastroenterology advisse that a person see a doctor if they are using OTC antacids two or more times a week.
A doctor may diagnose someone with GERD. In this condition, a weak esophageal sphincter allows stomach acid to rise into the esophagus.
- heartburn
- nausea
- bad breath
- tasting acid at the back of the mouth
- pain or burning in the chest or stomach
- problems swallowing
- vomiting
- damage to the teeth
- respiratory problems
A person should see a doctor
- vomiting large amounts
- experiencing regular projectile or forceful vomiting
- vomiting fluid that is green or yellow, contains blood, or resembles coffee grounds
- having problems breathing or swallowing
- noticing pain in the mouth or throat when they eat
Heartburn occurs when acid in the stomach flows up into the esophagus, causing pain that radiates from the stomach to the chest.
People can use OTC antacids for occasional symptoms of heartburn and indigestion. It is worth bearing in mind that active ingredients differ among brands, and side effects can vary, so it is important that people read the instructions before taking any antacids.
If someone needs antacids more regularly, this could indicate an undiagnosed health issue, and they should see their doctor.