What it is used for
- Quick relief of heartburn and acid indigestion
- Mild acid reflux
- Sour stomach and trapped wind discomfort
How it works
Antacids chemically neutralise acid that is already in the stomach, giving fast but short-lived relief. Alginate-containing products also form a raft on top of stomach contents to help reduce reflux into the food pipe.
How it is taken
Come as chewable tablets, lozenges, liquids, and effervescent forms. They are taken by mouth, often after meals or when symptoms occur. Take only as directed by the label or your pharmacist, and avoid using them constantly for long periods without advice.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Constipation (more with aluminium or calcium types)
- Diarrhea (more with magnesium types)
- Wind or bloating
- Chalky taste
Serious effects — get help
- Severe or ongoing stomach pain that does not settle
- Signs of high calcium (nausea, confusion, excessive thirst) with heavy long-term calcium use
- Allergic reaction
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Can reduce absorption of many medicines (some antibiotics like tetracyclines and quinolones, thyroid medicine, certain heart and HIV drugs) — separate the timing
- Iron supplements
- Other medicines affected by stomach acidity
Who should take care
- People with kidney problems should check before regular use, especially magnesium- or aluminium-containing types
- Tell your clinician if you are on a low-salt diet, as some products contain sodium
- Discuss frequent use in pregnancy with a pharmacist
- Persistent symptoms beyond a couple of weeks need medical review
- Separate antacids from other medicines by a couple of hours unless advised otherwise