Category:
Antacids
Brand names:
Gaviscon, Maalox, Mylanta, Rolaids, Tums
Why is Antacids prescribed?
Available under a number of brand names, antacids are used to
relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of acid indigestion, heartburn,
gas, and sour stomach.
Most important fact about Antacids
Do not take antacids for longer than 2 weeks or in larger than
recommended doses unless directed by your doctor. If your symptoms
persist, contact your doctor. Antacids should be used only for
occasional relief of stomach upset.
How should you take Antacids?
If you take a chewable antacid tablet, chew thoroughly before
swallowing so that the medicine can work faster and be more
effective. Allow Mylanta Soothing Lozenges to completely dissolve in
your mouth. Shake liquids well before using.
--If you miss a dose...
Take Antacids only as needed or as instructed by your
doctor.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature. Keep liquids tightly closed and
protect from freezing.
Antacids side effects
When taken as recommended, antacids are relatively free of side
effects. Occasionally, one of the following symptoms may develop.
- Side effects may include:
Chalky taste,
constipation,
diarrhea,
increased thirst,
stomach cramps
Why should Antacids not be prescribed?
Do not take antacids if you have signs of appendicitis or an
inflamed bowel; symptoms include stomach or lower abdominal pain,
cramping, bloating, soreness, nausea, or vomiting.
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to
aluminum, calcium, magnesium, or simethicone, do not take an antacid
containing these ingredients. If you are elderly and have bone
problems or if you are taking care of an elderly person with
Alzheimer's disease, do not use an antacid containing aluminum.
Special warnings about Antacids
If you are taking any prescription drug, check with your doctor
before you take an antacid. Also, tell your doctor or pharmacist
about any drug allergies or medical conditions you have.
If you have kidney disease, do not take an antacid containing
aluminum or magnesium. If you are on a sodium-restricted diet, do
not take Gaviscon without checking first with your doctor or
pharmacist.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Antacids
If antacids are taken with certain other medications, the effects
of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is
especially important to check with your doctor before combining
antacids with the following:
Cellulose sodium phosphate (Calcibind)
Isoniazid (Rifamate)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Mecamylamine (Inversine)
Methenamine (Mandelamine)
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate resin (Kayexalate)
Tetracycline antibiotics (Achromycin, Minocin)
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
As with all medications, ask your doctor or health care
professional whether it is safe for you to use antacids while you
are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Recommended dosage for Antacids
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If
you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
- For aluminum-containing antacids (Gaviscon,
Maalox, Mylanta)
Bone pain,
constipation (severe and continuing),
feeling of discomfort (continuing),
loss of appetite (continuing),
mood or mental changes,
muscle weakness,
swelling of wrists or ankles,
weight loss (unusual)
- For calcium-containing antacids (Mylanta,
Rolaids, Tums)
Constipation (severe and continuing),
difficult or painful urination,
frequent urge to urinate,
headache (continuing),
loss of appetite (continuing),
mood or mental changes,
muscle pain or twitching,
nausea or vomiting,
nervousness or restlessness,
slow breathing,
unpleasant taste,
unusual tiredness or weakness
- For magnesium-containing antacids
(Gaviscon, Maalox, Mylanta)
Difficult or painful urination,
dizziness or light-headedness,
irregular heartbeat,
mood or mental changes,
unusual tiredness or weakness
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