How do antacids relieve heartburn

Your doctor may prescribe an antacid to have on standby so that you only take it to relieve your symptoms when they occur, rather than every day. A full list of people who should not take antacids is included with the information leaflet that comes in the medicine packet.

If you are prescribed or buy an antacid, read this to be sure you are safe to take it. Most people who take an antacid do not have any side-effects. However, side-effects occur in a small number of users. The most common are diarrhoea, constipation and belching. Magnesium-containing antacids tend to be laxative whereas aluminium-containing antacids tend to be constipating.

Antacids containing both magnesium and aluminium may balance out these effects and so minimise any possible side-effects of diarrhoea or constipation. For a full list of all the side-effects and possible interactions associated with your medicine, consult the leaflet that comes with your medication. If you are taking antacids, you should avoid taking them at the same time as you take other medication.

This is because antacids can affect how well other medication is absorbed. If you think you have had a side-effect to one of your medicines you can report this on the Yellow Card Scheme. You can do this online at www.

The Yellow Card Scheme is used to make pharmacists, doctors and nurses aware of any new side-effects that medicines or any other healthcare products may have caused. If you wish to report a side-effect, you will need to provide basic information about:. You should consult your doctor if your symptoms worsen, or if you experience any of the following problems which can indicate a serious gut disorder:. Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and dyspepsia in adults: investigation and management ; NICE Clinical Guideline Sept - last updated October Br J Gen Pract.

I have also recently developed Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Egton Medical Information Systems Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy.

Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions. Antacids are a good treatment for heartburn that occurs once in a while. Take antacids about 1 hour after eating or when you have heartburn.

If you are taking them for symptoms at night, do not take them with food. Antacids cannot treat more serious problems, such as appendicitis , a stomach ulcer , gallstones , or bowel problems. Talk to your provider if you have:. You may have side effects from taking these medicines. Antacids are made with 3 basic ingredients. If you have problems, try another brand. Antacids can change the way your body absorbs the other medicines you are taking.

It is best to take any other medicine either 1 hour before or 4 hours after you take antacids. Diseases of the esophagus. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. Where to buy. Select Location and Language:. United States of America English. Search Submit. Antacids and Why They Work. Learn about the ingredients in your antacid. Aluminum and magnesium Aluminum salts dissolve slowly in the stomach, gradually relieving your heartburn symptoms; but they may cause constipation.

Mahadevan, U. Clinical Gastroenterology. Sadowski, DC. Mechanisms and Clinical Significance. Last Updated: May 5, This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject. Heartburn is a burning feeling in the lower chest, along with a sour taste in the throat and mouth.

Indigestion happens when your body has trouble digesting food. Anyone can get indigestion. You can get it on occasion,…. Reflux is a medical condition that happens when the acid in your stomach backs up to your throat.

Visit The Symptom Checker. Antacids reduce the effects of acid in your stomach. They do this by neutralizing the acid. Antacids can provide fast, short-term relief. There are many different brands of antacids. They come in the forms of chewable tablets, dissolving tablets, and liquid. H2 blockers reduce the amount of acid your stomach makes. H2 blockers usually start to work within an hour. OTC example is famotidine brand name: Pepcid.