Antacids/alginates

Question 1

Indications?

Answer 1

1. Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease - symptomatic relief

2. Dyspepsia

Question 2

Mechanism of action

Answer 2

Usually taken as a compound of alginate + antacids.

Antacids - buffer stomach acids

Alginates - increase viscosity of stomach contents

Question 3

Adverse effects

Answer 3

Compound alginates cause few side effects, which vary depending on constituents and the dose taken.

Magnesium salts can cause diarrhoea, whereas aluminium salts can cause constipation.

Question 4

Warnings

Answer 4

Sodium and potassium-containing compounds should be avoided in renal impairment.

Question 5

Interactions

Answer 5

Can bind to other drugs and reduce their absorption:

• ACE inhibitors
• Certain Abx
• Bisphosphonates
• Digoxin
• Levothyroxine
• PPIs

By increasing the alkilinity of urine my increase excretion of other drugs such as aspirin and lithium.

Question 6

Prescription

Answer 6

Oral suspension or chewable tablets

Question 7

Administration

Answer 7

Taken following meals, before bedtime and/or PRN.

Question 8

Communication

Answer 8

Should work within 20 mins - 1 hour.

Lifestyle measures.

Leave at least 2 hours between taking and taking other drugs that may be interfered with.

Question 9

Monitoring

Answer 9

Symptomatic response should be monitored

Question 10

Cost

Answer 10

Inexpensive