Antacid

Definition:

Antacids are the most useful drugs . for relief of hyperacidity & associated pain. ' ' Antacid preparations are weakly ]:)asic and consist of metal salts, most comffionly aliiminium hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, calcium carbonate, or sodium bicarbonate.
Classification: Antacids are classified as:
Systemic antacids: Which are usually absorbed from the gut so, these are preferable as blood alkaliser to combat acidosis rather than antacids, such as, sodim bicarbonate, sodium citrate, s odium acetate, potassium citrate.
ii. Non-systemic antacids: These are not significantly absorbed from the gut and mainly used as antacids such as, aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium trisilicate.
ALUMINIUM+ MAGNESIUM ANTACID:
Tablet/Suspension Aluminum & magnesium antacid preparations are non-systemic antacids. These are not significantly absorbed from the gut and mainly used as antacids such as, aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium trisilicate.
Mode of action: When antacids are ingested, these salts dissociate to neutralize gastric acid and form neutral salts within the stomach. Thus, the goal of antacid use is to increase the pH of gastric contents to a range of 3.5 to 4.5, at which pepsin activity is greatly diminished. Pain usually occurs when pH is below 3.5. There is good evidence from the clinical trials that antacids do not accelerate the rate of healing in gasttic ulcer, but in duodenal ulcer, where very high doses of antacids such as 200-300ml of aluminium hydroxide daily in divided doses at frequent intervals well promote ulcer healing, but such treatment is inconvenient to the patient.
Indication: Hyperacidity, gastric & duodenal ulcer, gastritis, heartburn, dyspepsia, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, flatulence.
Contraindication: Hypophosphataemia; if simethicone is added, contra-indicated i11 renal failure, severely debilitated patients, 1st trimester of pregnancy.
Side Effect: Diarrhoea, constipation, nausea, vomiting.
Cautions: Renal dysfunction, low phosphate diet, prolonged use
Conclusion:
Antacids are valuable medications for providing rapid relief from acid indigestion and heartburn. Their ability to neutralize excess stomach acid makes them a convenient and effective choice for occasional digestive discomfort. However, it's crucial to use them responsibly and consider lifestyle changes to manage and prevent digestive issues in the long term. For persistent or severe symptoms, seeking guidance from a healthcare professional is essential to address any underlying conditions properly.