What Are Antacids Used For?

Heartburn or acid reflux occurs when contents of the stomach flow back up the esophagus. This causes an uncomfortable burning sensation in the chest or upper abdomen. Sometimes people with acid reflux also taste food in the back of their mouth. This uncomfortable feeling is because the juices in your stomach contain acid that flows up into the food pipe.

These symptoms can be eased with the help of OTC antacids. Shop for best OTC medicines for acid reflux from trusted manufacturers like MCKESSON, Lil Drug Store, ACME UNITED and more

How Do Antacids work?

Antacid pills usually contain one or more of stomach acid neutralizing ingredients to reduce heartburn. These ingredients include

Calcium Carbonate
Magnesium Hydroxide
Aluminum Hydroxide
Sodium Bicarbonate

They stop an enzyme (pepsin) that creates acid that helps in breaking down food for digestion. Though antacids are a great way to quickly relieve heartburn symptoms they are not very effective in treating the underlying conditions. So if you suffer from acid reflux for more than 2 weeks it is important to talk to your healthcare provider. They may suggest lifestyle changes or might want to test you for GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).

Symptoms that Antacids Relieve

Antacids relieve heartburn symptoms like:

Burning sensation in chest or abdomen
Acidic or sour taste in the mouth
Gas and Bloating
Mild stomach or chest pain

Talk to your doctor before taking antacids if:

You have kidney disease, kidneys tones, heart problem or hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
You are on a low-sodium diet
Taking calcium supplements
Taking Prescription medicines

In what doses should you take antacids?

Antacids usually come as syrups, antacid pills and capsules or chewable gummies. The dosage usually depends upon the age and reason for use. It also varies by manufacturer and the content of the antacid. Make sure you read the label before using the antacid. If you are confused about the dosage or instructions are not clear consult your doctor before use.

How to take an antacid?

You can take an antacid whenever you experience heartburn or after an hour of eating. Do not take antacids with food. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how frequently you can use them. In case you experience heartburn at night you can take one before bedtime but make sure you do not eat anything at that time.

Is It Safe For Pregnant Women Or Lactating Mothers To Take Antacids?

It is usually safe for pregnant women to take antacids but it is best to consult your doctor before taking any medications. Antacids that contain aluminum salts and calcium are safe for consumption but you should not exceed the daily recommended dosage.

Some ingredients like calcium present in antacids pass through breast milk. It is usually safe to take them as long as you do not exceed the recommended dosage.

Where to buy best medicine for acid reflux and gas online?

At HPFY you will find a wide selection of OTC antacids that provide quick relief from acid reflux. Some of them also contain simethicone, an ingredient that relieves painful symptoms caused by too much gas in the stomach and intestines. Shop for antacid pills and chewable gummies from top manufacturers like MCKESSON, Lil Drug Store, ACME UNITED, HYLANDS and more.