Alginates and antacids

Question 1

What are examples of alginates and andantacids?

Answer 1

• Gaviscon
• Peptac

Question 2

What is thee mechanism of action of antacids?

Answer 2

Work by buffering stomach acids

Question 3

What are the components of antacids?

Answer 3

• Sodium bicarbonate
• Calcium carbonate
• Magnesium
• Aluminium salts

Question 4

What is the mechanism of action of alginates?

Answer 4

Increase the viscosity of the stomach contents, which reduces the reflux of stomach acid into the oesophagus. After reacting with stomach acid they form a floating raft, which separates the gastric contents from the GO junction to prevent mucosal damage

Question 5

What can antacids alone be used for?

Answer 5

Short-term relief of dyspepsia

Question 6

What are side effects of alginates and antacids?

Answer 6

• Magnesium - diarrhoea
• Aluminium salts - constipation

Question 7

What are important interactions to be aware of with antacids?

Answer 7

Divalent cations in compound alginates can bind to ther drugs, reducing their absorption

Question 8

What would you want to communicate to someone taking antacids/alginates?

Answer 8

• Medicine should relieve symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux within about 20 minutes and for several hours afterwards
• Discuss reflux lifestyle factors
• Compound alginates taken after mealtime/before bed

Question 9

When should alginates/antacids be administered?

Answer 9

Before bedtime and/or when symptoms occur