• Antacids are weak bases that are used to NEUTRALIZE
excess stomach acid
• Most antacids are weak inorganic bases
• Antacids DO NOT prevent
the over-production of acid
• Antacids DO neutralize the
• cid once it’s in the stomach MECHANISM OF ACTION • There is a certain level of acid in your stomach. A system called the pH (potential of hydrogen) system measures this level on a scale from 0-14. • The normal acid level in the stomach is about 2 or 3 on this scale. A pH of 7 is neutral, below 7 is acid and above 7 is alkaline. • When there is excess acid in your stomach, the pH level has probably dropped below the normal level of 2 or 3, and the job of the antacid, which is a base (the opposite of an acid), is to neutralize some of the excess acid. Promote the gastric mucosal defense mechanisms: Secretions of: • Mucus: protective barrier against HCl. • Bicarbonate: Helps buffer acidic properties of HCl • Prostaglandin: Prevent activation of pump inhibitors Common examples include Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3)
constipation, gas (flatulence) Nausea, bloating, or gas
People with heart failure may have sodium restrictions to help decrease fluid buildup. However, antacids often contain a lot of sodium.
People with kidney failure may develop a buildup of aluminum after
using antacids. This can lead to aluminum toxicity. People with kidney failure also tend to have problems with electrolyte balance. All antacids contain electrolytes, which could make electrolyte balance problems worse.