antacid drugs

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.

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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.

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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 this medication only as needed or as instructed by your doctor.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature. Keep liquids tightly closed and protect from freezing.

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What side effects may occur?
When
taken as recommended, antacids are relatively free of side effects.
Occasionally, one of the following symptoms may develop.

More common side effects may include:
Chalky taste, constipation, diarrhea, increased thirst, stomach cramps

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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.

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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)

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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.

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Recommended dosage
ADULTS

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Take antacids according to the following schedules, or as directed by your doctor.

Gaviscon and Gaviscon Extra Strength Relief Formula Chewable Tablets

Chew
2 to 4 tablets 4 times a day after meals and at bedtime or as needed.
Follow with half a glass of water or other liquid. Do not swallow the
tablets whole.

Gaviscon Extra Strength Relief Formula Liquid

Take 2 to 4 teaspoonfuls 4 times a day after meals and at bedtime. Follow with half a glass of water or other liquid.

Gaviscon Liquid

Take 1 or 2 tablespoonfuls 4 times a day after meals and at bedtime. Follow with half a glass of water.

Maalox Antacid Caplets

Take 1 caplet as needed. Swallow the tablets whole; do not chew them.

Maalox Heartburn Relief Chewable Tablets

Chew 2 to 4 tablets after meals and at bedtime. Follow with half a glass of water or other liquid.

Maalox
Heartburn Relief Suspension, Maalox Magnesia and Alumina Oral
Suspension, and Extra Strength Maalox Antacid Plus Anti-Gas Suspension

Take 2 to 4 teaspoonfuls 4 times a day, 20 minutes to 1 hour after meals and at bedtime.

Maalox Plus Chewable Tablets

Chew 1 to 4 tablets 4 times a day, 20 minutes to 1 hour after meals and at bedtime.

Extra Strength Maalox Antacid Plus Anti-Gas Chewable Tablets

Chew 1 to 3 tablets 20 minutes to 1 hour after meals and at bedtime