Written By: Shraddha Rupavate | Updated : February 24, 2015 5:15 PM IST
If you're among those thousands of Indians who frequently suffer from heartburn and indigestion after enjoying a spicy meal, then you most likely must've sought relief by popping over-the-counter antacids.
But are you sure that antacids will resolve your digestive problems without having an additional effect on your body? In this article, we provide a brief overview of antacids with inputs fromDr (Col.) M. Bhagat, Senior Consultant, Gastroenterology, Delhi based Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute.
What are antacids? What do antacids do?
The stomach digests the food you eat with the help of hydrochloric acid that it naturally secretes. When acid in the stomach is insufficient or in excess, the stomach wall may get damaged giving rise to various gastrointestinal symptoms such as stomach pain and heartburn. (Read: 10 home remedies for acidity that really work!)
Antacids, as the name suggests, work against excess acid. They neutralize acid and reduce acid reflux into the esophagus. They are a class of drugs used to treat conditions caused by acid production in the stomach. (Read: Beat acid reflux, GERD with Endostim the new minimally invasive technique)
Antacids can be of two types:
Commonly available over-the-counter antacids include aluminum hydroxide gel/suspension, calcium carbonate, magnesium oxide and sodium bicarbonate.
When should antacids be taken?
Dr (Col.) M. Bhagat says 'Antacids should be taken in situations of hyperacidity, burning pain, peptic ulcers, esophageal acid reflux and with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs). They can also be helpful to treat patients having minor indigestion with sour eructations and patients with chronic kidney diseases.'
Antacids are fast acting drugs and their effect lasts up to 3 hours after intake. They should always be taken after having meals (at least one hour later) because they are capable of reducing acid in the stomach within 20-40 minutes of intake. It is also recommended that antacids should be taken at least one hour before or after taking any other medication to avoid drug interaction.
Can frequent use of antacids mask other intestinal problems?
Dr (Col.) M. Bhagat says 'Yes, frequent and prolonged use of antacids potentially mask other intestinal problems like ulcer symptoms and may also lead to perforations of existing ulcers.'
What are the side-effects of antacids?
Dr (Col.) M. Bhagat says 'Antacids cause inhibition of acids which in turn can impair the digestion process. It also inhibits calcium absorption.'
Common side-effects of antacids include diarrhea, bloating and poor digestion. Other rare side-effects that have been noted depend on the active substance present in the antacid used. (Read: Acidity: A cause for heartburn)
Long term use of antacids can be harmful. It can lead to chronic acid reflux and severe indigestion problems. If you suffer from any of the above side effects due to antacids, stop taking the medicine at once and visit a doctor. (Read: 10 reasons for bloating or abdominal gas you didn't know about)
Drugs that you should avoid taking with antacids
Consult a doctor before taking an antacid if you suffer from hypertension, congestive heart failure (CHF) or kidney disease.
Read more about causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of acidity.
References:
Suvarna Bhoir, AM Bhagwat. Comparison of Seven Oxethazaine Containing Antacids Available in the Indian Market.
Treating Heartburn With Over-the-Counter Drugs (https://www.webmd.com)
Heart Burn (https://www.mayoclinic.org)
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