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The Global Insight

What do antacids produce?

Author

James Williams

Updated on February 06, 2026

Antacids are a combination of various compounds with various salts of calcium, magnesium, and aluminum as the active ingredients. The antacids act by neutralizing the acid in the stomach and by inhibiting pepsin, which is a proteolytic enzyme.

What products will be formed in your stomach when you consume an antacid?

Acids react with carbonate to form carbon dioxide and water, which are neutral compounds. Here is an example of a reaction between hydrochloric acid (HCl) and calcium carbonate (CaCO3). This is similar to the reaction that would happen in the stomach after taking an antacid.

How long do antacids last?

When ingested on an empty stomach, an antacid leaves your stomach too quickly and can only neutralize acid for 30 to 60 minutes. It’s important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before you take an antacid if you’re on other medications to prevent interactions.

What chemicals use antacids?

Table: Basic Antacids

AntacidFormula(1)Neutralizing Power
Sodium BicarbonateNaHCO3low
Magnesium HydroxideMg(OH)2high
Aluminum HydroxideAl(OH)3modest
Calcium CarbonateCaCO3very high

What is the best antacid tablet?

Best Overall: Prilosec OTC Delayed Release Acid Reducer Prilosec, or omeprazole, belongs in the proton pump inhibitor category of antacid drugs, which means it reduces the amount of food-digesting acid produced by the cells in your stomach lining.

Do antacids have weak bases?

Antacids are weak bases that act by neutralizing gastric acid (Fig. Thus, antacids can be used to relieve gastric pain caused by excessive acid secretion. Compounds that are commonly used include magnesium hydroxide, magnesium trisilicate, aluminium hydroxide.

What foods neutralize stomach acid?

Here are five foods to try.

  • Bananas. This low-acid fruit can help those with acid reflux by coating an irritated esophageal lining and thereby helping to combat discomfort.
  • Melons. Like bananas, melons also are a highly alkaline fruit.
  • Oatmeal.
  • Yogurt.
  • Green Vegetables.

What are antacids examples?

Antacids are medicines that neutralize stomach acid to reduce heartburn. Examples of antacids include: Aluminium hydroxide gel (Alternagel, Amphojel) Calcium carbonate (Alka-Seltzer, Tums)

How long does Gerd take to heal?

If allowed to continue unabated, symptoms can cause considerable physical damage. One manifestation, reflux esophagitis (RO), creates visible breaks in the distal esophageal mucosa. To heal RO, potent acid suppression for 2 to 8 weeks is needed, and in fact, healing rates improve as acid suppression increases.

What are two antacids examples?

Antacids are medicines that neutralize stomach acid to reduce heartburn. Examples of antacids include: Aluminium hydroxide gel (Alternagel, Amphojel) Calcium carbonate (Alka-Seltzer, Tums) Magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia)