Antacids

Question 1

Aluminum hydroxide gel
Calcium carbonate
Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium trisilicate

Answer 1

Adverse effects: constipation that may lead to impaction
Phosphate depletion

Nursing considerations: monitor bowel pattern
Compounds contain SODIUM - check if pt Na-restricted
Al and Mg antacid compounds interfere with TETRAcyclinE absorption
ENCOURAGE FLUIDS
Monitor for sx of PHOSPHATE deficiency: malaise, weakness, tremors, bone pain
Shake well
Caution in pts with renal dysfunction

Question 2

Magnesium hydroxide

Answer 2

Adverse: Excessive dose can produce nausea, vomiting, diarrhea

Rn considerations: store at room temp with tight lid to prevent absorption of CO2
Prolonged and frequent use of cathartic dose can lead to dependence
Administer with caution to pts with renal disease

Question 3

Aluminum hydroxide and mg hydroxide

Answer 3

Adverse: slight laxative effect

Considerations: encourage fluid intake
Administer with caution to renal pts

Question 4

Antacids - general action/indications/considerations

Answer 4

Action: neutralizes gastric acids, raises gastric pH
Inactivates pepsin

Indications: peptic ulcer, indigestion, reflux esophagitis, prevent stress ulcers

Adverse effects: constipation, diarrhea
Acid rebound between doses
Metabolic acidosis

Considerations: use meds with Na content cautiously for pts with CARDIAC/RENAL disease
Absorption of tetracyclines, quinolones (broad spectrum abx), phenothiazines (antipsychotics), Fe preparations, isoniazid reduced when given with antacids.
*DECREASED effectiveness of oral contraceptives and salicylates (NSAIDs such as aspirin)