Antacids: How They Work, What to Avoid, and When They Really Help

When your chest burns or your throat feels like it’s on fire, antacids, over-the-counter medicines that neutralize stomach acid to relieve heartburn and indigestion. Also known as heartburn relievers, they’re often the first thing people reach for after a spicy meal or too much coffee. But antacids aren’t magic pills—they’re temporary fixes. They don’t heal the root cause of acid reflux, and using them too often can hide bigger problems like GERD or even a stomach ulcer.

What most people don’t realize is that GERD, a chronic condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and damage over time isn’t solved by popping antacids daily. That’s like putting tape over a leaky pipe instead of fixing the crack. If you’re relying on antacids more than twice a week, you’re probably masking something that needs real treatment—like proton pump inhibitors or lifestyle changes. And here’s the catch: some antacids contain aluminum or magnesium, which can cause diarrhea or constipation if used long-term. Others, like those with calcium carbonate, might even make your acid problem worse after the initial relief wears off.

heartburn relief, the immediate reduction of burning sensation caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus is what antacids deliver fast—usually within minutes. But they last less than an hour. Compare that to medications like omeprazole or the newer Voquezna, which shut down acid production for hours. If you’ve tried antacids and still feel that burn by lunchtime, you’re not failing—you’re just using the wrong tool. The posts below show you exactly when antacids make sense, which brands are safest, how they interact with other meds like levothyroxine or antibiotics, and why some people feel worse after using them.

You’ll also find real stories from people who thought antacids were their only option—until they learned how diet, timing, and even sleeping position changed everything. No fluff. No marketing hype. Just what works, what doesn’t, and what your doctor might not tell you because they’re too busy prescribing the next pill.