Antacids are substances that neutralize excess stomach acid. Ideal antacids are not absorbed by the body, have a fine particle size, do not cause constipation or systemic alkalosis, and are readily available. There are two types of antacids - systemic antacids like sodium bicarbonate that are absorbed and can cause alkalosis, and non-systemic antacids that are not absorbed and do not have systemic effects. Non-systemic antacids contain aluminum, calcium, magnesium, or combinations thereof.

1. Antacids
By:
Isha Rani
Assistant Professor
MMCP, MMU- Mullana

2. Antacids
“The substance which neutralizes excess amount of
acid in gastrointestinal tract is called as antacid”
e.g: Sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3), Magnesium
hydroxide Mg(OH)2
Antacids

3. Ideal Properties of Antacids
Should not be absorbable
Fine particle size
Should not cause constipation
Should not cause systemic alkalosis
Should not act as laxative
Readily available
Should not produce large volume of gas
Non toxic

4. Types of Antacids
Antacids are two types:
Systemic (absorbable) Antacid: which are soluble,
readily absorbable and producing alkalosis e.g.
Sodium bicarbonate
Non- Systemic (non-absorbable) Antacid: which are
not absorbable and not produced systemic effect.

5. Non systemic antacids divided as
• Aluminium containing antacids: Aluminium
phosphate, Aluminium hydroxide
• Calcium containing antacids: Calcium carbonate,
tribasic calcium phosphate
• Magnesium containing antacids: Magnesium
carbonate, magnesium hydroxide
• Combination antacids: Aluminium hydroxide gel and
magnesium hydroxide