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What Are Antacids and How Do They Work?
pHis a measure that indicates the concentration of hydrogen ions in a solution, like your stomach acid.
The lower this number is, the more hydrogen ions there are and the more acidic the environment is.
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Antacids contain ingredients like aluminum, calcium, magnesium, or sodium.
These medications work differently from antacids but ultimately have similar effects.
Some are available OTC, and some require a prescription.
It is best to discuss the safest options for managing heartburn and stomach acid with your healthcare provider.
For this reason, antacids should only be used occasionally.
If it’s crucial that you use them regularly, bring this up with your healthcare provider.
A safer antacid option for heart health may be H2-blockers, like Pepcid or Zantac.
However, more research is needed to confirm their improved safety profile.
Interactions
Can You Safely Take Antacids With Other Medications?
There are many important interactions to be aware of between antacids and other medications.
It’s also important not to take other medications within two to four hours of taking an antacid.
Decreased absorption:
Increased absorption:
Can You Mix Antacids With Alcohol?
It is generally safe to take antacids with alcohol if both are used in moderation.
Some additional, more serious side effects to be aware of for specific products include the following.
Your stomach needs to be an acidic environment to digest food and keep bacteria at bay.
Too much stomach acid can produce uncomfortable symptoms, which antacids can help calm.
International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders.Antacids.
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