Magnesium is essential for maintaining good health. Magnesium supplements are often recommended for those who suffer from constipation or heartburn. What exactly are they?
Magnesium (see also: Chelated Magnesium ) is a mineral found naturally in food such as nuts, beans, seeds, vegetables, and fruits.
The body requires magnesium to function properly, especially during times of stress.
There are two types of magnesium supplements: antacid tablets and liquid forms.
Antacids contain magnesium hydroxide whereas magnesium citrate is usually taken in liquid form. Both forms provide similar benefits.
What Are Antacids Used For?
Antacid medications are used to relieve the signs and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, including heartburn, sour stomach, nausea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal discomfort, belching, burping, and painful swallowing.
Some antacids are also prescribed for entirely unrelated medical conditions, such as:
The two main differences between antacid products are the ingredients they contain and the way they work.
There are many different types of antacids, including those containing aluminum, calcium, magnesium, or sodium bicarbonate.
Each type works differently, and some may even be better suited to certain conditions.
There are also variations based on whether you use liquid or tablet forms. Liquid antacids usually come in single-dose bottles, while tablets are often sold in packs of four or six.
One common combination contains both aluminum and calcium carbonate. Other combinations may include additional ingredients such as alginates or simethicone.
Aluminum-based antacids generally begin working within 15 minutes, although it takes longer for some to reach maximum effectiveness.
They are most effective against heartburn and indigestion caused by acid reflux.
Calcium-based antacids are best for treating symptoms associated with gastric ulcers. Magnesium-based antacids can relieve nausea and vomiting and help prevent diarrhea.
Sodium bicarbonate-based antacids reduce gas production in the digestive system and promote healthy bowel movements.
Some antacids are designed to treat specific medical conditions. For example, calcium carbonate is used to treat osteoporosis and bone loss.
Simethicone helps break up bubbles of air trapped in the intestines and prevents gases from building up. Alginates form a protective layer over the surface of the stomach lining, preventing further damage.
How Should You Take Magnesium Antacids?
This medicine contains acetaminophen, a pain reliever that reduces fever and relieves mild aches and pains. This medicine works best when it is taken regularly.
If you take too much, call your doctor immediately. You may feel drowsy or dizzy. These effects usually go away within 2 hours.
If you are taking this medication long-term, tell your doctor if you notice changes in your vision or hearing. Your doctor may want to test your blood pressure while you are taking this drug.
Do not stop taking this medicine unless told to do so by your doctor. Stopping suddenly may cause serious side effects.
Are There Any Side Effects Of taking Magnesium Antacids?
The side effects of antacid medications vary according to the type of medication. For example, some antacids cause heartburn while others relieve it.
Some antacids may make you feel sick if you take too much, and others may cause stomach cramps.
Many antacids contain aluminum, which can cause bone loss. However, most people tolerate aluminum well without problems.
This drug may make you drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or perform other dangerous tasks until you know how the medicine affects you.
For most patients, it takes about one week to notice the full effect of this drug.
To reduce the chance of getting high blood pressure while taking this medicine, drink plenty of water each day. You may experience some stomach upset such as diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.
Tell your doctor immediately if you develop abdominal pain, bloody stools, dark urine, yellowing eyes/skin, low fever, muscle cramps, (see also: Which Magnesium Is Best For Muscle Cramps?)weakness, rash, sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising, or trouble breathing.
Most antacids have fewer side effects than prescription drugs such as antibiotics or antihistamines. If you think you might be experiencing side effects, talk to your doctor about alternative options.
Where Should This Medication Be Stored?
Medicines are important tools to help you feel better when you’re sick. But it’s important to know how to store medicines safely, especially if you have kids around.
Here are some tips to make sure you don’t end up giving someone else a nasty surprise.
Keep Out Of Reach Of Children
Children can put anything into their mouths – even things that look like toys. If you think something might be dangerous, check the label.
Store At Room Temperature Between 15 And 30 Degrees C (59 To 86 Degrees F)
You can use a thermometer to make sure your medication stays cool enough. Check the packaging to see what the recommended storage temperature is.
Medicine that says “keep refrigerated” needs to be stored in the refrigerator. Medicines that say “do not freeze” must be kept at temperatures above freezing.
Protect From Light And Moisture
Light exposure can cause certain medications to change color. Some drugs become less effective over time. Others could lose potency.
Make sure your medicine doesn’t come in contact with sunlight, heat, humidity, or extreme cold.
What Happens If You Miss A Dose?
If you forget to take your medicine, don’t worry. Take it as soon as possible. You might want to skip the missed dose if:
You are about to go out of town and won’t be able to remember to take your medication.
You feel sick, nauseated, or otherwise unwell.
Your symptoms return within 2 hours of taking your dose.
Your symptoms do not improve within 4 hours of taking your dose.
Final Thoughts
Antacids are used to treat acid reflux disease, ulcers, indigestion, and heartburn. They also prevent the formation of gastric ulcers by neutralizing stomach acids.
Antacids work by absorbing excess stomach acids so they cannot damage the esophagus or duodenum.
All aspects of health are incredibly important in keeping us at the top of our game when it matters most. But many people choose to ignore the health that they cannot see - including the gut, cognitive, respiratory, and more.
Hi, my name is Adam Maxwell and I have been a medical professional for over 20 years. My wife is also in the same field, having been a trained clinical psychologist for 15 years.
Between us, we have seen a fair amount of health-related issues!
