The effect of magnesium hydroxide as an antacid is one of its most common applications. The main function of magnesium hydroxide is to neutralize gastric acid and relieve discomfort symptoms caused by excessive gastric acid, such as stomach pain, heartburn and indigestion. The following are the specific principles of magnesium hydroxide as an antacid and its application:
1. Neutralization mechanism of magnesium hydroxide
Magnesium hydroxide is a weak base. When it enters the stomach, it will react with hydrochloric acid in the stomach to produce magnesium chloride and water. This reaction can quickly reduce the acidity of stomach acid, thereby alleviating discomfort caused by excessive stomach acid.
2. Acid anti-acid effect of magnesium hydroxide
Relieve heartburn: Heartburn is usually caused by excessive stomach acid, especially when the stomach acid refluxes into the esophagus, which can irritate the esophagus wall and cause a burning sensation. Magnesium hydroxide neutralizes gastric acid, reduces the acidity in the stomach and relieves burning sensation.
Treatment of indigestion: Symptoms of indigestion may include bloating, nausea, upper abdominal discomfort, etc. Magnesium hydroxide helps relieve these symptoms by lowering gastric acid levels.
Relieve gastritis: Magnesium hydroxide can reduce the symptoms of gastritis by reducing the irritation of gastric acid to the gastric mucosa, especially for acute or chronic gastritis caused by excessive gastric acid.
3. Indications of magnesium hydroxide
Excessive gastric acid: relieves symptoms such as stomach pain and heartburn caused by excessive gastric acid secretion.
Indigestion: Helps alleviate symptoms of indigestion caused by excessive stomach acid.
Constipation: As a laxative, magnesium hydroxide can be used to treat constipation and promote intestinal peristalsis.