Antacid Guide: Uses, Types, and Safety Tips

If you’ve ever felt that burning feeling in your chest after a big meal, you know how annoying acid reflux can be. Antacids are the go‑to over‑the‑counter remedy for that kind of discomfort, but not all antacids are created equal and they’re not a free‑pass for every stomach problem. This page gives you straight‑forward answers so you can pick the right product and use it safely.

How Antacids Work

Antacids are basically weak bases that neutralize excess stomach acid. Most contain ingredients like calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, or aluminum hydroxide. When you swallow a tablet, the base reacts with the acid in your stomach and turns it into water and salt, which reduces the burning sensation. Because the reaction happens right in the stomach, you usually feel relief in a few minutes.

Because they act locally, antacids don’t change how much acid your body makes. That means they’re great for occasional heartburn, but they won’t fix chronic problems like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If you need long‑term control, a doctor might suggest a proton‑pump inhibitor or an H2 blocker instead.

Choosing the Right Antacid

When you head to the pharmacy, you’ll see a lot of brand names—Tums, Maalox, Mylanta, Gaviscon, and others. The main differences are the active ingredients and how they affect your body:

• Calcium carbonate (Tums) works fast and is also a calcium source, but too much can cause constipation or kidney stones.
• Magnesium hydroxide (Maalox, Milk of Magnesia) relieves pain quickly but may give you loose stools.
• Aluminum hydroxide (Mylanta) can cause constipation, so it’s often paired with magnesium to balance the effect.
• Combination products mix calcium, magnesium, and aluminum to reduce side‑effects, but they may still affect mineral balance if you use them a lot.

Think about what matters most to you. If you’re prone to constipation, go for a magnesium‑heavy formula. If you have kidney issues, avoid high‑calcium products. Always read the label for dosage instructions and warnings.

Antacids can also interfere with other meds. They may lower the absorption of certain antibiotics (like tetracycline) or heart medicines (like digoxin). If you’re on prescription drugs, take the antacid at least two hours apart unless your doctor says otherwise.

Most people only need an antacid once or twice a week. Using them daily can mask a more serious condition and may lead to electrolyte imbalances. If you find yourself reaching for antacids more than twice a week, it’s a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional.

In a pinch, a glass of water with baking soda (a teaspoon in a cup) can also neutralize stomach acid, but it’s not recommended for regular use because it’s high in sodium.

Bottom line: antacids give fast relief for occasional heartburn, but pick the formula that matches your stomach’s response and watch out for interactions with other meds. When in doubt, ask a pharmacist or doctor—especially if you have chronic symptoms or underlying health issues.