What does an Antacid do?

What does an Antacid do?

• A. A drug that coats the stomach
• B. A drug that reduces nausea
• C. A drug that neutralizes stomach acid
• D. A drug that calms the stomach

Answer: (D)

An antacid works by neutralizing stomach acid. It contains a base such as calcium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide that reacts with the hydrochloric acid in the stomach to form water and a neutral salt, which raises the pH and reduces irritation. This provides quick, temporary relief from heartburn and indigestion. It doesn’t primarily coat the stomach, reduce nausea, or simply calm the stomach—those aren’t its main function. Use as directed and be mindful of potential interactions with other medicines.

An antacid works by neutralizing stomach acid. It contains a base such as calcium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide that reacts with the hydrochloric acid in the stomach to form water and a neutral salt, which raises the pH and reduces irritation. This provides quick, temporary relief from heartburn and indigestion. It doesn’t primarily coat the stomach, reduce nausea, or simply calm the stomach—those aren’t its main function. Use as directed and be mindful of potential interactions with other medicines.