Antacids help to relieve the pain of heartburn or acid indigestion by neutralizing stomach acids. Antacids may contain calcium carbonate, magnesium, aluminum or sodium bicarbonate. They're available as over-the-counter medications, and taking too much of any antacids may cause health problems. Speak to your doctor before taking any antacids.
Calcium Carbonate
Calcium carbonate is used as a calcium supplement or as an antacid. According to Drugs.com, the typical dose for adults is 300 to 8,000 mg per day. Taking too much calcium carbonate may result in nausea, vomiting, depressed appetite, constipation, confusion, delirium, and coma. Side effects may also cause dry mouth or excessive urination. Don't take calcium carbonate without speaking to your doctor first.
Magnesium Hydroxide
Magnesium is a mineral your body needs for a number of its chemical reactions. It is sold as a dietary supplement and used in some types of antacids. Large doses of magnesium can have a laxative effect. According to Drugs.com, magnesium hydroxide may cause allergic reactions. An overdose may cause nausea, vomiting, flushing, low blood pressure, slow heartbeat, drowsiness and coma. Speak to your doctor before taking magnesium hydroxide.
Aluminum Hydroxide
Aluminum hydroxide is used to treat acid indigestion and may be used to reduce phosphate levels in people who have kidney disease. It should not be taken for more than 2 weeks and it may not be safe to take if you have kidney disease, kidney stones, severe constipation, dehydration or if you drink alcohol frequently. According to Drugs.com, an overdose can cause constipation, weight loss, confusion, mood changes and decreased urination. Speak to your doctor before taking aluminum hydroxide.
Sodium Bicarbonate
Sodium bicarbonate is used to relieve heartburn and indigestion, and it may also make urine less acidic. Sodium bicarbonate may not be safe to use if you have intestinal problems, heart disease, high blood pressure, swelling of your arms and legs, kidney or liver disease, or problems with urination. According to Drugs.com, side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, mood swings, muscle pain, ankle swelling, depressed appetite, fatigue, constipation, dry mouth or increased urination. Speak to your doctor before taking sodium bicarbonate.
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