Heartburn is a burning sensation that develops in the chest and at times, the throat. It is a common sign of indigestion, which can lead to bloating and abdominal pain. This condition is quite common among more than 25% of adults across the globe. Antacids are over-the-counter (OTC) medications that are valuable in easing pain and discomfort caused by certain medical conditions like heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux. Antacids work rapidly to neutralize the acid in the stomach. It also inhibits the activity of pepsin, an enzyme that makes acid that breaks down food for digestion. Decreasing the excess acid secretion in the stomach alleviates symptoms like pain and discomfort.
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However, antacids will only ease symptoms for a couple of hours, but they do not treat the underlying medical conditions that cause these symptoms. Read on, to know more about the uses, types, precautions, and side effects of antacids.
What Are The Uses Of Antacids?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of antacids for curing mild cases of heartburn and indigestion.
Some of the uses of antacids include:
- Ease the burning sensation in the chest or stomach, specifically after having food or at night
- Get respite from an acidic or sour taste in the mouth
- Alleviate the bloated or full sensation
- Reduce mild pain in the chest and stomach
- Relieve the symptoms of acid reflux - GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)
Types Of Antacids
Generally, antacids contain a mixture of multiple compounds with salts of calcium, magnesium, and aluminium as key ingredients. They are available in two forms: liquids or tablets.
Liquid antacids work to coat, calm, and relieve pain and they function a little faster than pills to alleviate symptoms of heartburn and indigestion. Baking soda is also an antacid.
How Do Antacids Work?
Antacids contain a mixture of compounds like calcium, magnesium, and aluminium in the salt form as their key ingredients. It functions by neutralizing the acid in the stomach. They also hinder pepsin, which is a main enzyme that helps with protein digestion. Pepsin works with hydrochloric acid in the stomach to offer the acidic nature required for proper digestion.
While a few antacids contain a foaming element called alginate that floats on the top of the stomach contents and averts acid from encountering the oesophagus.
Can Pregnant Women Take Antacids?
Heartburn is a widespread problem during pregnancy, mainly when the uterus is pushing on the stomach and pressure can force stomach acid up the oesophagus resulting in heartburn symptoms.
However, pregnant women should be cautious while using antacids. They should avoid antacids including sodium bicarbonate that could affect the foetus. Antacids containing calcium carbonate are safe to use during pregnancy. But it is always advisable to consult with your gynaecologist if you suffer heartburn and take antacids as advised by your doctor.
Also Read: Tips To Prevent Heartburn During Pregnancy
How To Take Antacids And Precautions To Follow
Antacids should be taken an hour after food or when you experience heartburn. If you are having them at night, taking them with food is not usually suggested.
Also, you should avoid antiacids if you are allergic or hypersensitive to any specific ingredients in the formulation. always check with your healthcare provider before taking antacids if you:
- Suffer from kidney, liver or heart disease
- On a low-salt diet
- Have edema(swelling)
- Are pregnant or planning to conceive
- On other drugs
- Children under 12 years old
- Hypertensive
- Cardiac patients
It is not safe to take antacids very frequently. Discuss with your healthcare provider if you feel you need to take antacids on a regular basis.
Side Effects
Side effects of antacids include:
- Gas
- Constipation (mainly if the brand contains calcium or aluminium)
- Diarrhoea (if the antacid contains magnesium)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Stomach cramps
Serious side effects could include:
- Acid rebound (sometimes antacids can cause the body to produce more acid, which can worsen symptoms).
- Neurotoxicity (affecting the nervous system)
- Iron deficiency
- In rare cases, makes the bone fragile and weak due to overuse for a longer period of time.
- Hypercalcemia (excess calcium in your blood)
How Do Antacids Interact With Drugs?
Antacids can interact with how other drugs are absorbed in the system. To avert drug interaction, take other medicines an hour before taking an antacid.
Also, research suggests that antacids can interact severely with a broad range of medications used for treating serious medical problems including seizures, heart rhythm problems, Parkinson’s disease, antibiotics and psychiatric conditions, so always consult with your healthcare provider before combining antacids with any other medications.
