Which drug classification neutralizes acid (Amphojel, Gelusil, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia)?

Which drug classification neutralizes acid (Amphojel, Gelusil, Mylanta, Milk of Magnesia)?

• A. Antispasmodic
• B. Antacid
• C. Antidepressant
• D. Antidiarrheal

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is acid neutralization in the stomach. Antacids work by providing basic substances that directly react with hydrochloric acid in the stomach fluid. This chemical reaction forms water and salts, which raises the gastric pH and relieves symptoms of heartburn and indigestion quickly. The drugs listed—Amphojel, Gelusil, Mylanta, and Milk of Magnesia—are classic examples because they contain substances like aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium carbonate that neutralize acid on contact. This mechanism gives rapid, short-term relief, but it doesn’t reduce acid production over time—that’s the job of acid-suppressing drugs such as H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors. In contrast, antispasmodics target smooth muscle cramping in the GI tract, antidepressants affect mood and other CNS or autonomic processes, and antidiarrheals slow stool movement or absorb substances in the gut. So, the best classification for these medications is antacid.

The idea being tested is acid neutralization in the stomach. Antacids work by providing basic substances that directly react with hydrochloric acid in the stomach fluid. This chemical reaction forms water and salts, which raises the gastric pH and relieves symptoms of heartburn and indigestion quickly. The drugs listed—Amphojel, Gelusil, Mylanta, and Milk of Magnesia—are classic examples because they contain substances like aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium carbonate that neutralize acid on contact. This mechanism gives rapid, short-term relief, but it doesn’t reduce acid production over time—that’s the job of acid-suppressing drugs such as H2 blockers or proton pump inhibitors.

In contrast, antispasmodics target smooth muscle cramping in the GI tract, antidepressants affect mood and other CNS or autonomic processes, and antidiarrheals slow stool movement or absorb substances in the gut. So, the best classification for these medications is antacid.