Core pharmacology

Class Group

Antacids

Legacy Cicm Level

-

Introduction

Available in a range of
inorganic compounds.
Oral only

Mechanism of action

The basic solution neutralises acid in the gut, raising the pH by physicochemical properties

Physiological effects

Reduce acidity

water soluble antacids - faster acting

insoluble antacids - slower but less systemic effects

Adverse Effects Toxicity

can cause metabolic alkalosis, diarrhoea and constipation

Absorption

not systemic

Distribution

nil

Metabolism

act as a proton acceptor

Excretion

in faeces