Final answer:
Aluminum hydroxide (Amphogel) is the systemic antacid among the options provided. It functions by neutralizing excess stomach acid to relieve symptoms of heartburn and ulcers. Omeprazole, on the other hand, belongs to the class of proton-pump inhibitors and does not act as an antacid.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the options provided, Aluminum hydroxide (Amphogel) is the substance considered a systemic antacid. Systemic antacids are compounds that neutralize stomach acid and are used to treat conditions related to excess stomach acid such as heartburn, indigestion, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Aluminum hydroxide works by reacting with excess stomach acid (hydrochloric acid, HCl) to reduce the acidity of the stomach content. This action helps to relieve the symptoms of ulcers and heartburn. In contrast, antacid substances like calcium carbonate (found in Tums) also neutralize HCl in the stomach in a proton transfer reaction.
Omeprazole (Prilosec) is not considered an antacid but rather a proton-pump inhibitor, which decreases acid production in the stomach over a longer duration. Sucralfate (Carafate) is a medication that coats ulcers and protects them from further damage by acid, but it does not neutralize acid. Maropitant (Cerenia) is not an antacid; it's an antiemetic used to prevent vomiting in dogs and cats.