Why are carbonate and bicarbonate based antacids used instead of those that contain bases? Magnesium hydroxide can neutralize acids but calcium carbonate is still used instead. Why?
Carbonate and bicarbonates are weak bases, thus they are administered as antacids to neutralize the stomach acid whenever the pH decreses below 3. High alkaline drugs containing bases may counteract acidic condition in the stomach by increasing the pH level but they may interect with the digestive processes. The feeling of relief after taking these antacids may be good but only short term compared to the long term effect in body.
Mg(OH)2 may neutralize acids but calcium carbonate is still used. As deposition of magnesium in body may cause diarrhoea.
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