Guide To Side Effects Linked To Antacids

Antacids are medications that neutralize stomach acid. Many of them are available over-the-counter. The medications are available in liquid, tablet, and gummy formulations. Aluminum hydroxide, magnesium trisilicate, calcium carbonate, and sodium bicarbonate are a few of the most common antacids. Doctors recommend taking antacids either with food or soon after a meal. Individuals taking other medications should ask their doctor or pharmacist about potential interactions. Generally, patients who have taken an antacid will need to wait two to four hours before taking other medicines. Individuals with heart failure or kidney disorders should check with their doctor before using antacids, and a pediatrician should be consulted before antacids are given to children.

Many individuals take antacid medication as a treatment for heartburn or indigestion. Typically, patients will take them as dissolvable indigestion tablets. They are also a common option for acid reflux medicine. Antacids may also help as gastritis or stomach ulcer treatments. Of course, patients must understand the potential side effects of antacids first.

Diarrhea Or Constipation

Patients who take antacids may deal with diarrhea or constipation as side effects. Antacids that contain magnesium are most likely to trigger diarrhea, and those with aluminum or calcium can contribute to constipation. Diarrhea involves loose, watery stools, and patients could also notice more frequent bowel movements. Abdominal cramps or pain may occur, and mucus could be present in the stool. Some individuals may feel an urgent need to have a bowel movement, and nausea has been reported. To treat diarrhea at home, doctors recommend using over-the-counter medications such as loperamide to reduce the number of watery bowel movements. It is also beneficial to avoid dairy, high-fiber foods, and fatty foods for a few days.

If a patient taking an antacid goes for three or more days without a bowel movement, they are likely constipated. Symptoms of constipation include hard, dry stools that are small in size, and patients may also notice bloating or feel the need to strain during a bowel movement. To treat constipation, patients can try over-the-counterlaxatives and increasing dietary fiber. Enemas may be necessary if these measures do not work.

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