Side Effects of Antacids

Antacids (like Pepto Bismol, Rolaids and Tums to name a few) are primarily used to help relieve indigestion and heartburn. Antacids containing different chemicals (like aluminum, calcium, magnesium, sodium bicarbonate) may cause different side effects. Some side effects may disappear as the body gets used to the medication.

Aluminum Based

• Some of the side effects of aluminum-containing antacids include: severe constipation, moodiness, appetite loss and weight loss, swollen joints, muscle weakness and bone pain.

Calcium Based

• Some of the side effects of calcium-containing antacids include severe constipation, moodiness, pain during urination, frequent urination, headaches, appetite loss, nausea, restlessness and fatigue.

Magnesium Based

• Some of the side effects of magnesium-containing antacids include moodiness, dizziness, arrhythmia, painful urination, unusual weight loss and fatigue.

Sodium Bicarbonate Based

• Some of the side effects of sodium bicarbonate-containing antacids include frequent urination, appetite loss, nausea, swollen feet and legs, muscle pain, headaches and fatigue.

Other Side Effects

• Antacids may sometimes cause less common side effects like excessive thirst, mild constipation, diarrhea, abdominal cramps and discolored stool.