Antacid

An antacid is a substance that neutralizes stomach acid to relieve symptoms such as heartburn and indigestion. Common active ingredients include calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, and aluminum hydroxide.

Hydrochloric acid: A strong acid produced by the stomach that helps digest food and control microbes. Antacids neutralize this acid in the stomach.
Heartburn: A burning sensation behind the breastbone, often caused by stomach contents refluxing into the esophagus. Antacids can provide short-lived relief when stomach acid contributes to the sensation.
Proton-pump inhibitor: A medicine that suppresses stomach acid secretion by inhibiting the gastric proton pump. Unlike antacids, these medicines reduce acid production and generally take longer to provide full relief.
Drug interaction: A change in a medicine's effect caused by another medicine, food, or substance. By changing stomach acidity or binding medicines, some antacids reduce absorption of other drugs.
Acid–base reaction: A chemical reaction in which an acid and a base transfer protons or form water and a salt. Antacid ingredients consume gastric acid through this kind of reaction.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease: A chronic condition in which stomach contents repeatedly flow back into the esophagus and cause troublesome symptoms or complications. Frequent symptoms may indicate a condition that antacids alone do not control.
H2 receptor antagonist: A medicine that reduces stomach acid secretion by blocking histamine H2 receptors on gastric cells. It lowers acid secretion instead of chemically neutralizing acid already present.
Constipation: Infrequent or difficult passage of stool, often involving hard stools or straining. Aluminum-containing antacids can slow bowel movements.
Calcium carbonate: An inorganic compound used in antacid tablets and also found in limestone, chalk, and shells. It neutralizes acid and can release carbon dioxide, causing belching.
Chewable tablet: A solid medicine designed to be chewed before swallowing. Many antacids use this form to disperse their ingredients and act in the stomach.

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