The Four Common Types of Antacids and Their Side Effects

There are occasions when a person suffers from an attack of indigestion and quickly reaches for one of those antacids. This instinctive reliance on antacids to relieve such disorder or other similar abdominal discomforts is due mainly to the known effects antacids have on the digestive system.

For reasons that are still not fully understood, the stomach occasionally produces an amount of gastric acid that is more than normal. Working through chemical reaction, antacids neutralize this excess gastric acid secretion to digest food. Acid indigestion, or heartburn, which can be caused by overeating or by having too much caffeine or alcoholic beverages, is a common symptom that antacids can help to alleviate. With their helpful gastric-acid counteracting effect, can we say that it's always wise to take antacids whenever we experience a sour stomach? Are they totally harmless?

Most antacids are both helpful and completely harmless, provided the manufacturer's recommended dosages are closely observed. It isn't wise, however, to take antacids with milk; milk is known to absorb antacids and therefore eliminates their effectiveness. Doctors likewise advise to discontinue using antacids if your symptoms persist for more than a few days to a week. In all probability, what you are experiencing may not anymore be just an ordinary indigestion but a sign of the presence of a more serious disorder, such as ulcer or heart disease.

There are different types of antacids, each of which may affect the user differently. Before using an antacid, you should be aware of the side effects it carries. Those of the four common types of antacids are enumerated here.

The sodium bicarbonate type, which has baking soda for its main ingredient, can provide quick relief. However, its use should be for a very limited period only and should not be taken too often. Being high in sodium content, it may pose risks to those who have high blood pressure. Other side effects that may crop up as a result of taking these antacids too frequently include disruption of the mineral balance in the body, failure of the heart and kidney to function normally, and increase in urinary tract infections.

The calcium carbonate type also provides speedy relief because of its high calcium content. While these antacids can be taken daily, it may cause severe constipation in some people. Several studies have also proven that an excess in calcium intake may result to the formation of kidney stones or the disruption of kidney function.

The aluminum compound type, while equally effective as the other types of antacids, acts slowly in providing relief. Side effects of these antacids include the risk of constipation (when taken frequently) and the depletion of the body's mineral reserves, specifically of calcium (in case of long-term use).

The magnesium compound type, because of its high magnesium content, has a laxative effect. As a counterbalance, some antacids under this type are mixed with either calcium or aluminum. These antacids are not recommended for elderly people, especially those with diabetes, as it may result to an abnormally high blood pressure or in certain heart conditions.

If you are taking other medications, consult your doctor before taking an antacid. Some antacids can interfere with the absorption of certain drugs, such as antibiotics. For this reason, antacids should be taken well apart from other medications you may already be taking. [Read the Original Article]