Why do doctors prescribe antacids?

Heartburn is the result of acid reflux, which occurs when stomach acid flows up into the esophagus. Doctors often suggest antacids as a first treatment to help soothe minor heartburn. These drugs help reduce symptoms by neutralizing acid in your stomach.

Who should not take antacids?

Who should not take ANTACID?

• decreased kidney function.
• diarrhea.
• low amount of phosphate in the blood.
• hemorrhoids.
• a blockage of the intestines with stool.
• blockage of the stomach or intestine.
• constipation.
• decreased kidney function.

Why are antacids not good for you?

Brands with calcium or aluminum may cause constipation. Rarely, brands with calcium may cause kidney stones or other problems. If you take large amounts of antacids that contain aluminum, you may be at risk for calcium loss, which can lead to weak bones (osteoporosis).

Can antacids cause more acid?

Antacids (for example, calcium carbonate) when consumed in high doses and for long periods of time may cause acid rebound. Acid rebound is a condition in which the stomach produces even more acid after the consumption of foods and drinks.

Is antacid a strong or weak base?

Antacids are weak bases that act by neutralizing gastric acid (Fig. 4.8). Raising the pH of the stomach contents results in suppression of the action of pepsin that exacerbates ulceration due to acid. Thus, antacids can be used to relieve gastric pain caused by excessive acid secretion.

What are antacids explain their role in providing relief from stomach ache?

Antacids are neutralizing, absorbing agents taken to relieve heartburn or indigestion caused by excess stomach acid. They typically contain salts of magnesium, aluminum, calcium and sodium. Antacids work by raising the gastric pH and are also used to provide symptomatic relief from peptic ulcers.

Do antacids cause Alzheimer’s?

A very large meta-analysis of 9 observational studies including more than 6,000 people reported that regular antacid use was not associated with Alzheimer’s disease [18]. Even when the analysis was confined to people who used antacids regularly for over 6 months, there was no association with Alzheimer’s.

Are antacids bad for kidneys?

Upset stomach/antacid medications. This group of over-the-counter medications can disrupt the body’s electrolyte balance if you have chronic kidney disease.

Does low stomach acid cause reflux?

The Scientific Evidence. Although there are many blog articles that state low stomach acid is the underlying cause of acid reflux there is little to no evidence to back this up.