From the Guidelines
Calcium-based antacids include TUMS, TUMS EX, TUMS Ultra, LiquiCal, CalciChew, and Caltrate 600, which contain calcium carbonate as their active ingredient. These products are commonly used to neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach [ 1 ]. The calcium content in these antacids varies, with calcium carbonate being 40% elemental calcium, allowing for different dosages to achieve the desired effect [ 1 ]. For example, TUMS Ultra contains 1,000 mg of calcium carbonate, which is 40% elemental calcium, equivalent to 400 mg of elemental calcium [ 1 ].
When considering the use of calcium-based antacids, it is essential to weigh the benefits against potential risks, such as constipation, kidney stones, or milk-alkali syndrome, particularly with prolonged use [ 1 ]. Additionally, individuals with kidney disease, high calcium levels, or certain other medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider before using these products regularly [ 1 ]. The dosage and frequency of calcium-based antacids should be guided by the product's label instructions and healthcare provider advice, typically not exceeding 7000 mg per day [ 1 ].
Key characteristics of calcium-based antacids include:
- Quick action, usually within minutes, by chemically reacting with stomach acid to form water, carbon dioxide, and calcium salts
- Potential side effects such as constipation, kidney stones, or milk-alkali syndrome with prolonged use
- Interference with the absorption of certain medications, requiring a 2-hour gap between taking other drugs and calcium antacids
- Importance of chewing tablets thoroughly before swallowing for maximum effectiveness [ 1 ].
From the FDA Drug Label
Purpose Antacid
Drug Name: calcium carbonate (PO)
The examples of calcium-based antacids include:
- Calcium carbonate 2 is a calcium-based antacid.
From the Research
Calcium-Based Antacids
- Calcium carbonate is a common example of a calcium-based antacid, as mentioned in studies 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- Tums® is a specific brand of calcium-containing antacid, cited in 6 as a source of calcium in a case of Milk-AlKali syndrome.
Characteristics and Uses
- Calcium-based antacids work by partially neutralizing gastric hydrochloric acid and inhibiting the proteolytic enzyme pepsin, as explained in 3.
- They have been used for various indications, including duodenal and gastric ulcers, stress gastritis, gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, and non-ulcer dyspepsia, as discussed in 3 and 4.
Important Considerations
- Calcium-based antacids can produce drug interactions by changing gastric pH, altering drug dissolution, or affecting urinary pH, as noted in 3.
- Large doses taken for long periods can lead to significant adverse effects, especially in patients with underlying diseases like chronic renal failure, as warned in 3 and 5.