What is the difference between Antacids and Alginates?


Antacids neutralize gastric acid and are, broadly used in the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in adults. They are utilized for more than 2,000 years, though evidence of the effectiveness and safety is limited in infants [1]. Antacids have an effect on the short-term relief of heartburn and the healing of esophagitis. Characteristic antacids consist of alkali complexes of aluminum and/or magnesium, aluminum and magnesium phosphates, magnesium trisilicate, carbonate, and bicarbonate salts [2].

Alginate-based raft-forming formulations vary from conventional antacids by forming a gel on the surface of the gastric contents and contain sodium or potassium bicarbonate.

Alginates and antacids components are frequently combined in one product. Because of potential toxicity, prolonged use of antacids should be avoided [3].


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1.     Mandel KG, Daggy BP, Brodie DA, Jacoby HI. Review article: alginate-raft formulations in the treatment of heartburn and acid reflux. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2000; 14:669–90.
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2.     Gottrand F, Faure C. Drug therapy; acid-peptic disease. In: Walker W, Goulet O, Kleinman RE, Sherman PM, Shneider BL, Sanderson IR, editors. Pediatric gastrointestinal disease. Ontario: BC Decker; 2004. p. 2086–7.Google Scholar

 

3.     Vandenplas Y, Rudolph CD, Di Lorenzo C, et al. North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition, European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition. Pediatric gastroesophageal reflux clinical practice guidelines: joint recommendations of the North American society of pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition and the European society of pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition. J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr. 2009; 49:498–547.
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This is for informational purposes only. You should consult your clinical textbook for advising your patients.