Note when using antacids

This is an automatically translated article.


Antacids are pharmaceuticals that work based on the body's neutralizing reaction of hydrochloric acid secreted in the digestive juices in the stomach, which has the effect of increasing the pH and reducing the acid in the stomach. Therefore, many people when experiencing heartburn immediately take antacids to treat. However, should you use this drug on your own to solve the problem?

1. What are antacids?


Antacids are pharmaceutical products that neutralize hydrochloric acid (secretion in the stomach) to reduce acidity in the stomach and increase pH.
When the stomach secretes too much acid, it will cause stomach pain, indigestion, gastric reflux, stomach ulcers, ... then, the doctor will prescribe antacids to help relieve pain, digestive disorders,...

Thuốc kháng axit được sử dụng để giảm các triệu chứng đau do acid trong dạ dày
Thuốc kháng axit được sử dụng để giảm các triệu chứng đau do acid trong dạ dày

2. Can antacids be used to treat heartburn?


Symptoms of heartburn, heartburn are caused by low levels of stomach acid, lack of digestive enzymes along with fast eating habits, improper chewing, making food in the stomach ferment, producing toxic gas, and acid will overflow into the stomach. esophagus causing heartburn. At that time, using antacids will help improve symptoms of burning, heartburn. However, this is only a temporary measure, if you repeat the habit of chewing food incorrectly, the food in the stomach will ferment, create toxic gas and continue to cause heartburn.
Acids in digestive juices have the effect of killing certain types of bacteria in food. Taking antacids causes the stomach to produce more acid. Therefore, do not arbitrarily use antacids when heartburn, or when suffering from digestive disorders.

3. Note when using antacids


Use the dose of medicine as directed and prescribed by the doctor. The most effective time to take antacids is right after a meal. Do not take antacids and other drugs at the same time, to avoid affecting the effectiveness of the treatment. You should only take another medicine 2-4 hours after taking the antacid.
The pediatric dose of antacid is less than the adult dose. Do not arbitrarily take more than the doctor's instructions if you accidentally take an overdose, contact your doctor for advice or go to the nearest medical facility for a timely assessment.

Người bệnh nên sử dụng thuốc kháng axit theo chỉ dẫn của bác sĩ
Người bệnh nên sử dụng thuốc kháng axit theo chỉ dẫn của bác sĩ

Should take antacids daily for treatment as directed, but forget to take 1 dose, need to take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose instead, do not double your dose.

4. What are the side effects of antacids?


Side effects caused by antacids are almost nonexistent. However, side effects can still occur even when using them as directed, depending on the individual.
After taking antacids that can cause constipation or have laxatives. Some people have allergies. Many antacids contain calcium as an ingredient. If you take too much medicine as prescribed or take it for longer than directed by your doctor, it also causes side effects such as:
Nausea Nausea In case of women who are pregnant or breastfeeding need to consult a doctor before use. Most antacids are considered safe for this person, but it is still advisable to consult a doctor to avoid unwanted risks.

Sử dụng thuốc kháng axit có thể gây ra tác dụng phụ táo bón
Sử dụng thuốc kháng axit có thể gây ra tác dụng phụ táo bón

Some antacids are not recommended for children under 12 years old, children with liver disease, kidney disease or heart failure,...
Subjects having to control salt (sodium) in the diet, people If you have high blood pressure or cirrhosis, you also need to be careful. Some antacids contain high levels of sodium which can be harmful when combined with this diet.
In addition to taking medication for treatment, patients should also actively visit their doctor periodically to check the progress of the disease as well as make appropriate adjustments.
Vinmec International General Hospital currently has a general health check-up package, performed by a team of experienced leading medical doctors and with the support of modern technological equipment, which will be detected as soon as possible. signs of gastric ulcer disease, on that basis, propose the most optimal treatment regimen for each patient's condition.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.

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