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Which are ingredients in antacids?
1) MgCO₃
2) CaCO₃
3) Mg(OH)₂
4) NaHCO₃

1 Answer

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Final answer:

Antacids typically contain basic compounds such as MgCO₃, CaCO₃, Mg(OH)₂, and NaHCO₃, which act to neutralize stomach acid and relieve symptoms like heartburn. Calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide are commonly used ingredients in such products.

Step-by-step explanation:

The ingredients in antacids typically include compounds that can neutralize stomach acid. These compounds are basic in nature. Common ingredients found in antacids are:

MgCO₃ (Magnesium carbonate)

CaCO₃ (Calcium carbonate)

Mg(OH)₂ (Magnesium hydroxide)

NaHCO₃ (Sodium bicarbonate)

For example, calcium carbonate is an active ingredient in many over-the-counter chewable antacids which neutralizes stomach acid and may lead to the production of carbon dioxide, potentially causing a belch.

Magnesium hydroxide is another common ingredient, used in products like Milk of Magnesia, and it can also neutralize stomach acid but may have a laxative effect. Antacid formulations sometimes combine different ingredients to balance their effects and prevent side effects like constipation or diarrhea.

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