Pharma gyan Pandit

Classification of Antacids

Antacids are divided into:

      I.        Non-systemic Antacids: These, as stated above, directly neutralize the acid in the stomach and give relief in gastric and duodenal ulcers. The nonsystemic antacids are composed of alkaline salts such as aluminum (aluminum hydroxide) and magnesium (magnesium hydroxide, magnesium trisilicate). A small degree of systemic absorption occurs with these drugs, mainly of aluminum. Magnesium hydroxide has greater neutralizing power than aluminum hydroxide. Magnesium compounds can cause diarrhea, and aluminum and calcium compounds can cause constipation with long-term use. A combination of magnesium and aluminum salts neutralizes gastric acid without causing severe diarrhea or constipation. Simethicone, an antigas agent, is found in many antacids. 

1)    Aluminium hydroxide gel

2)    Dried aluminium hydroxide gel

3)    Aluminium phosphate

4)     Magnesium hydroxide

5)     Magnesium trisilicate

6)    Light and heavy magnesium carbonate

7)    Magaldrate

8)    Calcium carbonate.

9)    Bismulth suberarbonate