| Drug Class | Antacids |
|---|---|
| Mechanism | * Weak alkali to neutralise stomach acid * Alginate component ↑ stomach content viscosity to reduce acid reflux |
| Indications | Symptomatic relief only: * Gastric/duodenal ulcers * GORD * Non-ulcer dyspepsia |
| Contra-indications | * Hypophosphataemia (Al/Mg salts) * Renal impairment (Mg salts) |
| Side-effects | Magnesium salts = diarrhoea Aluminium salts = constipation |
| Interactions | ↓ absorption: ACE inhibitors, antibacterials, Digoxin, iron ↑ excretion: Lithium |
| Elimination | |
| Additional Notes |