Caution Regarding Daily Antacid Use: A Warning from Medicover Hospitals on World Liver Day (April 19)*

Visakhapatnam, April 2026:When faced with issues such as acidity, heartburn, or stomach discomfort, many people immediately turn to antacid tablets for relief. While these medications offer temporary respite, they have become a daily habit for a significant number of individuals. However, Dr. Srinivas Nishtala—an Interventional Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at Medicover Hospitals—warns that the prolonged use of these medications without medical supervision can be detrimental to one's health.

Doctors note that the extended use of specific antacids—particularly Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)—exacerbates health complications in patients already suffering from heart disease, diabetes, or kidney disorders. Although antacids are prescribed to over 50% of patients visiting hospitals in India, approximately 30% of these patients continue to use them beyond the prescribed duration. Furthermore, many others purchase these medications directly from pharmacies and use them continuously without any medical guidance.

Antacids merely alleviate symptoms; they do not resolve the underlying medical issue. Prolonged use can lead to a depletion of essential minerals in the body, such as magnesium and potassium. Consequently, this may result in symptoms such as muscle pain, fatigue, and irregular heartbeats.  Similarly, deficiencies in iron and Vitamin B12 can lead to anemia, weakness, and neurological complications. Prolonged use may result in bone weakness, thereby increasing the risk of fractures. In some instances, it may also adversely affect kidney function.

Patients should not overlook certain key symptoms. If symptoms such as persistent fatigue, muscle cramps, dizziness, heart palpitations, numbness in the hands or feet, or hair loss manifest, one should consult a doctor immediately.

“Antacids can be beneficial if used correctly and for a limited duration. However, prolonged and indiscriminate use can lead to complications such as mineral deficiencies, anemia, and bone weakness. These issues can be easily prevented by consulting a doctor in a timely manner,” advises Dr. Srinivas Nishtala.

On the occasion of World Liver Day, Medicover Hospitals conveys a crucial message: it is essential not merely to alleviate symptoms temporarily, but to identify and address their underlying causes. Safeguarding your gastric health is synonymous with protecting your liver health.

Antacid tablets should not be used for a period exceeding 4 to 8 weeks without a doctor's recommendation. Individuals who have already been using them for an extended period should undergo a comprehensive health check-up. Long-term health can be preserved only by minimizing self-medication and strictly adhering to medical advice.  The Department of Gastroenterology at Medicover Hospitals identifies the root causes of chronic gastric issues through advanced diagnostic tests and expert medical care, providing treatments tailored to individual needs.

Medicover Hospitals is one of India's fastest-growing chains of multi-specialty hospitals. Spanning across several cities—including Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh—the organization is served by a team of over 1,000 expert physicians. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology, the institution is committed to delivering high-quality medical services that are accessible to all.

               K.V.SHARMA EDITOR