Fate of oral neutralizing antacid and its effect on postprandial gastric secretion and emptying
Deering, T.B.; Carlson, G.L.; Malagelada, J.R.; Duenes, J.A.; McCall, J.T.
Gastroenterology 77(5): 986-990
1979
ISSN/ISBN: 0016-5085 PMID: 39873 Document Number: 144287
The fate and neutralizing efficiency of oral antacids [AlH3O3 and Mg(OH)2] and their effect on postprandial gastric function were quantified in 6 patients with duodenal ulcer disease. A double-marker technique for measurement of gastric secretion and emptying was used and combined with back-titration of the gastric samples and analysis of Al to trace the fate of antacid in the stomach and duodenum. Antacid therapy with AlH3O3 and Mg(OH)2 significantly increases gastric secretion. Intragastric neutralization of gastric acid produces a significant and substantial decrease in net acid output (acid secreted - acid neutralized), but the beneficial effects of neutralization are partially offset by incomplete intragastric formation of AlCl3. Most but not all ingested antacid is utilized in acid neutralization in the stomach (average 78.6% in 6 patients). Antacid therapy does not modify the absolute rate of postprandial gastric emptying, but increases dilution of gastric contents, expanding the intragastric volume. The fractional gastric emptying rate declines, and this should enhance antacid utilization by delaying its emptying.