Why should you not take antacids daily?

Some people with acid reflux get into the habit of taking over-the-counter antacids daily to prevent symptoms, but this can be harmful in the long run. Long-term use of antacids leads to an increased risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures, gastrointestinal infections and pneumonia.

Is it harmful to take antacids everyday?

But overuse or misuse can sometimes cause unwanted and even serious side effects. In rare cases, you could experience constipation, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting. One potential downside of long-term heavy use is that the medication could put you at an increased risk for osteoporosis.

What are the side effects of long-term use of antacids?

Antacid Tablets

Follow dosage recommendations though because high levels of calcium carbonate in the body can cause constipation, nausea, mood changes or even heart rate changes.

How long can you safely take antacids?

While both types of medication can be safe for long-term use, it is crucial to talk with your physician before taking them for more than two weeks. You need to get to the root of the problem to ensure you don't have a serious health condition masking itself as indigestion.

Can you take antacids forever?

These medications relieve acid reflux by neutralizing stomach acid. Generally, it's recommended that you use antacids only as needed and for short periods — usually no more than two weeks — because long-term use of antacids can cause health problems.

Too many antacids can lead to health problems

What can I use as a natural antacid?

Baking soda is inexpensive and totally natural. Simply dissolve a teaspoon of baking soda into a cup of water. The baking soda will help neutralize acid.

What is the safest antacid to take daily?

FDA declares Pepcid, Nexium and others free of NDMA.

What happens when you stop taking antacids?

Stopping PPI treatment can cause rebound acid hypersecretion, leading to the transient appearance of symptoms such as indigestion, heartburn or regurgitation.

Who Cannot take antacids?

Can your body become dependent on antacids?

No, antacids aren't addictive. If you're taking antacids regularly to treat your symptoms, talk with your healthcare provider. Antacids aren't a cure for any underlying conditions that cause your symptoms.

What acid reducer can you take daily?

The recommended adult dose of ranitidine ranges from 150 mg daily to 150 mg twice daily or 300 mg once daily depending on the condition being treated. Ranitidine may be taken with or without food.

How do I get off antacids?

Slowly taper off the PPI over 2-4 weeks (the higher the dose, the longer the taper). While the taper is being completed, use the following for bridge therapy to reduce the symptoms of rebound hyperacidity. Encourage regular aerobic exercise. Encourage a relaxation technique such as deep breathing.

What is better than antacids?

Proton pump inhibitors — when H2 blockers don't help. If your acid reflux symptoms aren't improving after trying antacids and H2 blockers, your healthcare provider may recommend a PPI. PPIs work inside the cells of the stomach lining. They block an enzyme — H+/K+ ATPase — that produces stomach acid.

How do I reduce stomach acid without antacids?

Which fruit is best antacid?

Melons – Watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew are all low-acid fruits that are among the best foods for acid reflux. Oatmeal – Filling, hearty and healthy, this comforting breakfast standard also works for lunch.

Is banana a good antacid?

2. Bananas. This low-acid fruit can help neutralize stomach acid by coating an irritated esophageal lining. And not only are bananas alkaline, they're also rich in pectin — a soluble fiber that helps keeps food flowing nicely through the digestive tract.

Can you live long with GERD?

Chandra said that once a diagnosis of GERD has been established, it may become a lifelong condition that will need management. She added that it's best to identify certain causes of your symptoms and learn to avoid or control circumstances to alleviate or even prevent symptoms.

What is the best long-term acid reducer?

To solve longer episodes of recurring heartburn, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are usually recommended. This last class of drugs, including brand names such as Nexium and Prilosec, is typically the most effective for frequent, ongoing heartburn.

What drink is good for antacid?

Drinks you can try at home to improve acid reflux include alkaline water and herbal tea, specifically licorice, ginger, or chamomile tea. Does drinking water help acid reflux? Drinking water can help to balance the pH of a particularly acidic meal (which can trigger acid reflux in some people).

Should you drink water after taking antacid?

Follow the directions on the label. Drink a glass of water after taking this medication. Antacids are usually taken after meals and at bedtime, or as directed by your care team. Take your medication at regular intervals.

How do you permanently treat GERD naturally?

Can antacid cure GERD?

Options include: Antacids that neutralize stomach acid. Antacids containing calcium carbonate, such as Mylanta, Rolaids and Tums, may provide quick relief. But antacids alone won't heal an inflamed esophagus damaged by stomach acid.

Can taking too many antacids be harmful?

Few people die from an antacid overdose, and recovery is quite likely. However, high calcium levels can cause serious heart rhythm disturbances, as well as kidney stones and damage to kidney function. Long-term overuse is often more serious than a single overdose.

What are the two most common side effects of antacids?

Common Side Effects

Side effects vary based on antacid ingredients, but can include: Gas or belching. Swelling in the feet, ankles, and hands (products containing sodium bicarbonate, such as Alka-Seltzer) Constipation (products containing calcium or aluminum)