Gastric reflux or acidity is one of the most expected conditions during pregnancy. It is most commonly complained about discomfort from pregnant women across the world. Having said that, Antacids are also the most commonly used treatment for Heartburn and indigestion. But are Antacids safe during pregnancy.?
Can a pregnant woman just go grab an antacid from the pharmacy as such to treat her gastric irritation? The answer may be no. You need to be diligent in choosing Antacids as well. This article will help you know about your Antacids, which are safe and which are unsafe. Do you need a doctor’s recommendation for it or not? Let’s begin.
What Is An Over-The-Counter Antacid?
Over-the-counter antacids are non-prescription medications that are used to relieve heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion. (1) They can be obtained without a prescription from the pharmacy. There are many available OTC antacids in the market, but one should be cautious in choosing the appropriate antacid during pregnancy.
How Do Antacids Work?
Heartburn or acid reflux, GERD, or stomach irritation can be caused by excess production of acids and enzymes in the stomach. Antacids can give symptomatic relief from these symptoms by neutralizing excess acids (HCL) produced and by inhibiting the enzymes producing these acids that cause discomfort.(1a)
Is It Safe To Take Antacids During Pregnancy?
The safety of antacids depends on their site of action. Generally, antacids with more localized action are safer than antacids acting systemically. (1b)
Making the right antacid choice is crucial for safety. Antacids containing bicarbonates and magnesium trisilicate are not suggested during pregnancy. Both can cause maternal and fetal risks. (2)
What Happens If You Take Too Many Antacids During Pregnancy?
You don’t need too many antacids in the first place to control your symptoms. Excessive use may lead to prolonged side effects like diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, stomach pains vomiting, etc.
Antacids mostly contain Aluminum, calcium, and magnesium, a kind of minerals which excess consumption may cause an increase in levels of these minerals, causing metabolic disturbances in the body. (3)
- For example, taking excessive amounts of calcium-containing Antacids can lead to milk-alkali syndrome and kidney stone formation. (4)
- Excessive intake of Antacid can cause acid rebound, -meaning increasing the levels of acid production and making the condition worse
- Not only that, excess use of antacids containing aluminum and calcium can also cause anemia, which is not good during pregnancy (3a)
- Antacids can have a lot of interactions with other drugs, such as iron and folic acid supplements. They reduce the absorption of these drugs, which are of prime use during pregnancy. It’s better to take them with a considerable gap.
Reasons To Avoid Antacids During Pregnancy?
Antacids are generally considered safe in Pregnancy. If you suffer from moderate to severe gastritis or severe heartburn, or if you have GERD ( gastrointestinal reflux disease), you can take the prescribed dose of Antacid by your doctor. Unnecessary use or prolonged use of antacids is discouraged in view of side effects and metabolic imbalance caused in the body (5). Even though considered safe, It’s important to consult your physician before taking any antacids on your own
Which Antacids Are Safe For Pregnant Women?
Magnesium, aluminum, and calcium-containing Antacids are considered safe during pregnancy. Antacids containing sucralfate are also considered safe during Pregnancy.(4a)
Some safe common Antacid brand names include: Gelusil, Gel MPS, Acigene, etc
Which Antacids Are Unsafe For Pregnant Women?
Bicarbonates, Magnesium Trisilicate, and sodium-containing Antacids should not be used during Pregnancy. (4b) Bicarbonate-containing antacids can have the risk of maternal fluid overload and metabolic alkalosis. Magnesium trisilicate in prolonged doses can lead to fetal distress (6) and stones in the kidneys in babies. We should avoid taking these Antacids during pregnancy.
Some Unsafe common Anatcid Brand names include Gaviscon, Gaviraft, and Exceraft.
Other Ways to Reduce Heartburn And Indigestion
A mild to moderate Antacid can always be managed with lifestyle modifications such as:
- Drinking water
- Eating small, frequent meals,
- Avoiding spicy, sugary, and fatty food
- Reducing caffeine intake.
- Sleeping with an elevated head and sleeping on the left side can also help. Try not to sleep immediately after meals.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol strictly
Following these precautions can bring a lot of relief to heartburn in turn avoiding taking unnecessary medications. Please consult your doctor if you still have discomfort even after following these precautions and modifications.
Antacids are generally available over the counter without any prescription. Even though generally considered safe, it’s always recommended to consult the doctor before using them. Your doctor may help you in prescribing the right Antacid for you. Please follow the instructions for dose and dosage. Do not overuse or try multiple antacids without consulting your doctor. Mild indigestion and gastric reflux can be effectively managed with lifestyle modifications and dietary habits can have a lot of impact on the outcome.
FAQ’s
1. What Antacids are safe during pregnancy?
Antacids containing aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and calcium carbonate are considered to be safe during pregnancy.
2. Is Digene safe in pregnancy?
Digene is safe during pregnancy. You can take Digene by consulting your doctor.
3. Is Rantac Safe During Pregnancy?
Rantac can be used only at the doctor’s suggestion. It is used only when the benefit outweighs the risk.
References
- Garg V, Narang P, Taneja R. Antacids revisited: review on contemporary facts and relevance for self-management. J Int Med Res. 2022 Mar;50(3):3000605221086457 – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8966100/
- Law R, Maltepe C, Bozzo P, Einarson A. Treatment of heartburn and acid reflux associated with nausea and vomiting during pregnancy – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2821234/
- Blake H. Salisbury; Jamie M. Terrell, MSUCHM – Ascension Providence
2 University of LA Monroe – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526049/ - Altuwaijri M. Evidence-based treatment recommendations for gastroesophageal reflux disease during pregnancy: A review. Medicine (Baltimore). 2022 Sep 2;101(35):e30487 – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9439837/
- International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders – https://iffgd.org/manage-your-health/diet-and-treatments/antacids/
- Law R, Maltepe C, Bozzo P, Einarson A. Treatment of heartburn and acid reflux associated with nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Can Fam Physician. 2010 Feb;56(2):143-4 – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2821234/
