What are the ingredients in an antacid tablet?
What are the ingredients in an antacid tablet?
These tablets contain certain ingredients like calcium, sodium bicarbonate, aluminium and magnesium which acts like alkalis or bases to oppose acid in stomach and make pH neutral. pH refers to the evaluation of hydrogen ion concentration in any solution, and it shows how alkaline or acidic those solutions are.
What makes an antacid neutral to stomach acid?
Antacids are a class of medicines that neutralize acid in the stomach. They contain ingredients such as aluminum, calcium, magnesium, or sodium bicarbonate which act as bases (alkalis) to counteract stomach acid and make its pH more neutral.
How does the chemical reaction of antacids work?
Antacids: How do they work? Antacids work based on a very simple principle of basic chemistry: Acid + Alkali = Salt + Water When you add an equal amount and strength of an acid substance to an alkali substance, the resulting chemical reaction turns the acid and alkali into salt and water.
Why are aluminum and magnesium used in antacid preparations?
Preparations are usually a combination of aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide to maximize the buffering capabilities of each compound. Magnesium causes increased bowel motility and aluminum causes decreased motility, which is another reason why the two are usually combined.
What is the best antacid?
Sodium-rich antacids contain too much salt for those on low sodium diets. Unlike calcium carbonate antacids, sodium bicarbonate versions work best on an empty or partially full stomach. Sodium bicarbonate is usually the best antacid ingredient for fast acting and strong relief of acid reflux.
What are the four types of antacid?
In general, there are four basic types of antacid medications. These include sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, and aluminum and magnesium compounds. While each of these provides relief of the symptoms of stomach acid, some may not be recommended for those with particular health conditions.
What antacids are safe?
Safer Alternatives. Antacids made from calcium carbonate are considered safe and effective during pregnancy. Antacids that have magnesium oxide or magnesium hydroxide are also safe choices. Both calcium and magnesium-based antacids work by neutralizing the acid in your stomach, which helps reduce pain and discomfort.
When to take antacids?
When to Use Antacids. 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.