An antacid is a medication taken to reduce stomach acidity, typically to relieve pain from heartburn or indigestion. Antacids also help relieve the pain of stomach and duodenal ulcers. Available in various forms, antacids can be purchased without a prescription, but people are advised to talk with a physician about their use.
Function
Antacids are designed to raise the pH level of the stomach from a too-acidic state. Neutral pH is 7, while the normal stomach acid level usually is 2 to 4.
Main Ingredients
Antacids contain sodium, calcium, magnesium or aluminum, or a combination of these. Any of these ingredients can raise pH levels by neutralizing stomach acid.
Additional Ingredients
Some antacids also contain simethicone, to relieve excess gas.
Types
Antacids are available in tablets, capsules, granules, wafers, powders and liquids.
Brands
Some brands of antacids include Mylanta, Pepto Bismol, Phillips Milk of Magnesia, Rolaids and Tums.
Other Use
Physicians may recommend antacids with aluminum carbonate or aluminum hydroxide to treat excess blood phosphate, which can cause kidney stones.
Tags: relieve pain, stomach acid