Heartburn is one of the most frequent symptoms of the digestive system, and here, we will explain some examples of antacids and their mechanism of action to alleviate this discomfort.
What are antacids?
They are natural and chemical medicines that are responsible for protecting the gastric mucosa, reducing the appearance of hydrochloric acid , an aggressive agent of this layer of the stomach.
In turn, it acts on hydrochloric acid, changing the stomach pH to an alkaline or basic medium.
As for the symptoms of heartburn , it is a sensation of heat or burning in the abdomen, fullness, frequent flatulence and sometimes constipation or diarrhea.
Causes of heartburn
Among the causes that can cause heartburn are the mixture of hot and cold foods , that is, drinking water or soda and soup at the same time.
On the other hand, prolonged fasting and excessive consumption of caffeine (coffee) and highly seasoned or spicy products are risk factors for gastritis or gastric ulcer.
Other factors or causative agents that can cause heartburn are smoking or cigarette consumption, chronic use medications, stress and copious meals.
Treatment of gastritis or gastric ulcer
Regarding the treatment of these symptoms, medications such as gastric protectors (proton pump inhibitors) and antacids are indicated.
However, a healthy diet, free of fats and ingredients such as hot sauces, as well as coffee, reducing cigarettes and avoiding stress, is essential.
For its part, pharmacological treatment is essential, following medical indications. In this way, we will explain some examples of antacids.
1. Aluminum hydroxide
It is one of the most prescribed drugs to calm acidity and allows aluminum to interact within the gastric mucosa, reducing the increase in hydrochloric acid.
On the other hand, it prevents the wear of the layer that protects the stomach, that is, it reduces the appearance of gastric ulcer.
Regarding its adverse effects, it can cause nausea, sometimes vomiting and most frequently, constipation.
2. Baking soda
The action of sodium bicarbonate is to reduce the appearance of hydrochloric acid and also causes solubility in water, which means the relief of symptoms.
On the other hand, its use is recommended to treat heartburn, abdominal fullness and gas, interacting with simethicone and other digestive substances.
3. Omeprazole
This drug belongs to the family of gastric protective drugs that inhibit the proton pump, reducing the secretion of hydrochloric acid.
Likewise, it participates in blocking the release of free radicals from the stomach and prevents the appearance of gastric ulcer.
However, medical research has detailed that the indiscriminate use of omeprazole can lead to risk factors related to intestinal polyps.
4. Sucralfate
The increase in stomach acidity is counteracted with this cytoprotector of the stomach mucosa, generating proven relief and few adverse reactions.
However, this medication should be taken before meals, as it prevents the feeling of fullness and heartburn.
Other uses of sucralfate are used in the treatment of gastric ulcers , duodenitis and intestinal irritation.
5. Milk of magnesia
Although it is popularly known as ‘ milk of magnesia’ , its scientific and commercial name is magnesium hydroxide and it has various digestive properties.
Therefore, it works by decreasing stomach acid, protects the gastric mucosa from free oxidation radicals and is soluble in water.
In turn, it is useful in prolonged constipation, being a laxative recommended by specialists.
6. Lemon
Now, lemon is one of the examples of natural antacids , even though it is a citric acid, but with properties that change during digestive transit.
Next, when the lemon interacts with the hydrochloric acid, it changes its chemical structure, becoming an alkaline medium and, in turn, a protective effect.
7. Chamomile
Chamomile tea or infusion is a natural digestive par excellence and also has multiple properties that classify it as one of the most widely used remedies.
Therefore, it is recommended to take it after meals, interacting its effect with hydrochloric acid and reducing bothersome symptoms.
In the same way, it is a natural antiseptic, skin protector, calming, analgesic and an anti-inflammatory par excellence.
8. Calcium carbonate
As for this drug, it is one of the most recommended for digestive disorders such as gastritis or peptic ulcer.
Regarding its mechanism of action, calcium carbonate reduces the levels of hyperacidity or fluidity of hydrochloric acid.
As if that were not enough, it is a calcium supplement that helps strengthen bones and facilitates absorption from the digestive tract, favoring the functions of digestive enzymes.
In conclusion, antacids protect the stomach from the aggressive action of hydrochloric acid, are soluble in water, and aid in intestinal absorption.
