STOPACID 250MG/120MG SUSPENSION

Indications

• Dyspepsia
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Vaccination as an adjuvant

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific product guidelines for dosing; pediatric dosing varies based on age, weight, and formulation.

Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines for dosing; generally, aluminium antacids are taken as needed, with doses determined by the severity of symptoms.

Mechanism of action

Aluminium compounds exert their effects primarily by neutralizing gastric acid, which increases the pH of stomach contents. This activity reduces gastric acidity, providing symptomatic relief from heartburn and indigestion. In the context of vaccines, aluminium salts act as immunological adjuvants, enhancing the body's immune response to the antigen present in the vaccine.

Pharmacodynamics

The pharmacodynamic effects of aluminium include the neutralization of gastric acids and the enhancement of the immune response. The antacid effect decreases the acidity of gastric secretions, leading to increased comfort in patients with acid-related disorders. As an adjuvant in vaccines, it improves the body's immunogenic response, resulting in a more effective long-term immunity.

Pharmacokinetics

Aluminium compounds are not significantly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract when used as antacids, and their systemic bioavailability is low. In the case of parenterally administered aluminium (e.g., in vaccines), the absorption can vary, but the majority of the aluminium is eventually excreted via the kidneys. The half-life of aluminium in the body depends on various factors, including the form of aluminium, the route of administration, and individual patient factors such as renal function.

Contra-indications

• Hypersensitivity to aluminium or any of its components
• Severe renal impairment

Adverse effects

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Aluminium toxicity (with chronic use or in patients with renal impairment)

Interactions

• Antacids may interfere with the absorption of certain medications
• Phosphate supplements may be less effective when taken with aluminium-containing products

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with renal impairment
• Monitor for signs of aluminium toxicity in long-term use
• Assess dietary phosphorus levels in patients taking aluminium-containing medications

Pregnancy

Aluminium is generally considered safe during pregnancy when used as directed, but excessive exposure should be avoided.

Breast-feeding

Aluminium is excreted in breast milk but is not expected to cause harm in nursing infants when used appropriately.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Formulations

• Aluminium hydroxide gel
• Aluminium carbonate
• Aluminium phosphate

Dosage

Children: Refer to specific guidelines for pediatric dosing; consult the BNF for Children for accurate dosage information.

Adults: Refer to specific guidelines for use; dosage may vary based on the context of use.

Mechanism of action

Hydroxide ions act primarily as bases, neutralizing acids to form water and salts. They participate in various biochemical pathways, including selenium metabolism and the degradation of reactive oxygen species. Hydroxide can influence enzyme activity and stability by altering the pH of the environment, thereby affecting metabolic reactions.

Pharmacodynamics

Hydroxide ions can impact biological processes by changing the local pH, which influences enzyme activity, ion transport, and the solubility of other compounds. Their ability to neutralize acids can help regulate physiological pH, contributing to homeostasis in living organisms.

Pharmacokinetics

As an inorganic ion, hydroxide does not undergo traditional pharmacokinetic processes like absorption, distribution, metabolism, or excretion. Instead, it is rapidly equilibrated in biological fluids and participates in acid-base reactions, having immediate effects on the local environment.

Pregnancy

There is limited information regarding the use of hydroxide during pregnancy. Consult a healthcare professional for advice.

Breast-feeding

Limited data is available on the excretion of hydroxide in breast milk. Consult a healthcare professional before use.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children.

Indications

• Gastric hyperacidity
• Heartburn
• Indigestion
• Gastritis
• Peptic ulcers

Dosage

Children: Refer to the BNF for Children for appropriate dosing information.

Adults: Refer to specific product guidelines for dosing, as it may vary based on formulation.

Mechanism of action

Trisilicate works by reacting with hydrochloric acid in the stomach to form neutral compounds, which reduces acidity. This action helps to alleviate symptoms of acid-related disorders by increasing the pH level in the stomach.

Pharmacodynamics

Trisilicate exhibits its therapeutic effects primarily through acid neutralization. By decreasing the acidity of gastric contents, it provides symptomatic relief from conditions such as gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and peptic ulcers. The onset of action is typically rapid, with effects lasting for a few hours.

Pharmacokinetics

The pharmacokinetics of trisilicate involve minimal systemic absorption since the drug primarily acts locally within the gastrointestinal tract. The compound is excreted unchanged in the feces. Its onset of action is usually within minutes after administration, with a duration of effect that can last several hours, depending on gastric emptying and the formulation used.

Pregnancy

Trisilicate is not recommended for use during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

Breast-feeding

Trisilicate may be used during breastfeeding, but it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, protected from light.