How do antacids affect drug absorption

In contrast, an unexpectedly increased hypoglycaemic or anticoagulant effect may be potentially dangerous. Therefore, a knowledge of the potential effect of antacids on the absorption of other drugs is clinically important.

Abstract Antacids are widely used for many disorders. Publication types Research Support, Non-U. Gov't Review. Antacids also seem to help many of those with bloating or functional non-ulcer dyspepsia. By reducing gastric acidity raising the intragastric pH , antacids inactivate pepsin and relieve symptoms.

Over-the-counter preparations provide only temporary symptom relief. They do not prevent recurrence of symptoms or allow an injured esophagus to heal. They should not be taken regularly as a substitute for prescription medicines — they may be hiding a more serious condition. If needed regularly for more than two weeks, consult a physician for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

IFFGD is a nonprofit education and research organization. Our mission is to inform, assist, and support people affected by gastrointestinal disorders.

Our original content is authored specifically for IFFGD readers, in response to your questions and concerns. If you found this article helpful, please consider supporting IFFGD with a small tax-deductible donation. This information is in no way intended to replace the guidance of your doctor. All Rights Reserved. International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders. GI Disorders. Upper GI Disorders.

Lower GI Disorders. Bowel incontinence Chronic constipation Chronic diarrhea Dyssynergic defecation. Other GI Disorders. Abdominal adhesions Acute Hepatic Porphyria Anal fistulas Celiac disease Clostridium difficile Congenital sucrase-isomaltase deficiency. Malabsorption Opioid Induced Constipation Radiation therapy injury Scleroderma Short bowel syndrome Superior mesenteric artery syndrome. Vovulus Rare diseases. Motility Disorders. Functional GI Disorders. The Digestive System. Reality Report from Miranda A.

Share this page. Share on facebook. Share on twitter. Share on linkedin. Share on email. Share on print. Topics of this article. Was this article helpful? Make a donation. Related Information. Personal Stories. Our Other Sites. Stay Connected. Keep up-to-date on the latest news, stories, tips, research highlights, and more! If you want a calcium-based antacid but are worried about gas, you may prefer Citrical calcium citrate because Tums calcium carbonate tends to cause gas.

You can take antacids 30 minutes before you eat, but most people find longer-lasting relief from their symptoms up to 2 hours if they take antacids an hour after eating or when their symptoms first appear. Antacids that contain both magnesium and aluminum — like Maalox and Mylanta — are less likely to cause diarrhea or constipation than products containing just magnesium or aluminum, since the effects of these two ingredients tend to balance each other out.

By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Health Topics.