ANTACIDS- Classification and Mechanism of Action
INTRODUCTION
Antacids are defined as a substance, generally a base, which counteracts stomach acidity. The name antacid means anti-acid (against acid). Antacids are the primary treatment for ailments such as gastric reflux, gastritis, upset stomach and heartburn. Hydrochloric acid is secreted by the stomach to kill harmful organisms, aid digestion and activate digestive enzymes. Excess secretion of acid into stomach or impaired resistance by the lining of the stomach or reflux into the oesophagus may produce symptoms and the treatment of these symptoms is by reducing the acidity in the stomach.
CLASSIFICATION OF ANTACIDS
Antacids can be classified into two main classes based on the mechanism used to counteract the stomach's acidity. One class works by chemical neutralisation of gastric acid (absorbable antacids) and the other class acts by absorption of the acid (non-absorbable antacids). Antacids are sometimes even......
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