Antacids are medications that neutralize the hydrochloric acid (HCl) secreted in the gastrointestinal fluid of the stomach, antacids also act as a buffer for the stomach by increasing pH, to reduce stomach acidity.
When the stomach is too acidic, it will cause pain, ulcers ... Therefore, antacids are indicated for pain relief and discomfort in the digestive system. For heartburn, taking antacids may temporarily improve the burning sensation.
With that said, these drugs work to reduce stomach acid but then due to lack of acid, digestive problems will occur. If the patient continues to use the drug, the stomach will be acid deficient, leading to disturbances in the digestion of food and absorption of nutrients, especially B vitamins and iron. Moreover, the acid in the digestive juices also has the function of killing some bacteria in food. If the acid is completely neutralized, the stomach reacts by secreting more. Therefore, if you use drugs arbitrarily, it will lead to negative health effects.
The antacids themselves also have notable side effects, as follows:
Aluminum salts: Interfering with the absorption of phosphate so it can cause constipation, fatigue, loss of appetite, damage to bones;
Calcium salts: If used incorrectly, the calcium salts can cause constipation, urinary problems, headaches, mood swings, muscle weakness, vomiting ...;
Sodium carbonate (NaHCO3): Changes blood pressure, edema ...;
Magnesium dioxide (Mg (OH) 2): Caution should be taken when using this drug in patients with renal impairment, cardiovascular patients, and in patients with neurological complications;
In addition, pregnant women taking antacids increase their child's risk of developing asthma. The results show that using antacids during pregnancy increases 51% of the risk of asthma in children born later.
In short, antacids help relieve pain when too much acid secretes in the stomach. However, pregnant women should be cautious about using this drug and strictly follow the instructions of their doctor.
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