Belcid GERD Mechanism of Action

PHARMACOLOGY: Pharmacodynamics: BELCID GERD is a combination of two antacids (calcium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate) and an alginate.
On ingestion, it reacts rapidly with gastric acid to form a raft of alginic acid gel having a near neutral pH and studies have shown that the raft interacts with and caps the acid pocket in the stomach, reducing esophageal acid exposure. The raft floats on the stomach contents effectively impeding gastro-esophageal reflux, for up to 4 hours, and protecting the esophagus from acid, pepsin and bile. In severe cases the raft itself may be refluxed into the esophagus, in preference to the stomach contents, and exert a demulcent effect. In addition, in vitro evidence has shown that the raft has a secondary action and is able to entrap bile and pepsin within its structure, further protecting the esophagus from these gastric components.
Calcium carbonate neutralizes gastric acid to provide fast relief from indigestion and heartburn. This effect is increased by the addition of sodium bicarbonate which also has a neutralizing action. The total neutralizing capacity of the product at the lowest dose of two tablets is approximately 10 mEqH+.
Pharmacokinetics: The mode of action of BELCID GERD is physical and does not depend on absorption into the systemic circulation.