Antacid Syrup

Antacid syrups are a combination of calcium, magnesium, and aluminum salts which neutralize the acid in the stomach. They inhibit pepsin, an enzyme which works with hydrochloric acid in the stomach to provide the acidic environment necessary to digest food. 

Apart from effectively checking acid imbalance in the body, certain antacid syrups with their laxative properties relieves constipation gently and smoothly, thus retaining nutrients from food, and thereby imparting a sense of well-being to the patient. 

It has been found that liquid antacids usually work faster and better than tablets or capsules.

The best time to take antacid syrup, or in that matter any antacid, is about an hour after eating or when you have the feeling of heartburn. If the symptoms are more pronounced at night then do not take them with food.

Antacid syrup is used to treat symptoms of excess stomach acid, including symptoms of acid reflux, heartburn, or indigestion.

Acid reflux is a condition in which acid-containing contents in the stomach persistently leak back up into the esophagus. Acid reflux can sometimes include regurgitation, bitter taste, persistent dry cough, pain when lying down, and trouble swallowing.

Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux. It is the painful burning sensation in the middle of the chest caused by irritation to the lining of the esophagus. The burning sensation in the chest and sometimes in the throat is caused by acid reflux.

Heartburn is very common during pregnancy; because the uterus pushes on the stomach which forces stomach acid up the esophagus causing heartburn. Having said that, pregnant women should use antacid syrup only after a doctor’s consultation because the syrup might contain sodium bicarbonate, which could affect the fetus. 

Yes, some people complain of side-effects after taking antacid syrup which might include diarrhea, constipation, inhibited bone mineralization, and fluid retention or alkalosis.