Question

Which of the following medicines is used for indigestion?
(a)Antibiotic
(b)Antacid
(c)Analgesic
(d)Antiseptic

Answer 1

Hint: Indigestion is basically a feeling of discomfort in the upper area of the abdomen. In most cases, the reason behind this is the excess secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. It is often also referred to as acidity.

Complete answer:
Indigestion is also called dyspepsia or upset stomach. It is usually not identified as an individual disease itself but, in most cases, is a symptom of some underlying disease. The major and very often experienced symptom is heartburn accompanied by nausea, severe abdominal pain, and abdominal fullness.
Antacids help in relieving the discomfort caused by heartburn by neutralizing the excess acids secreted by the gastric mucosa. Most antacid medicines contain alkalis like aluminum hydroxide or magnesium trisilicate. Alkaline ions liberated from these medicines neutralize the acid thereby reducing damage and relieving pain.

Additional Information: The stomach is the first organ in the alimentary canal where food enters after chewing. The major process done here is the breakdown of proteins by proteolytic enzymes. Extremely low pH is the essential requirement for these enzymes to work properly. Oxyntic or parietal cells secrete hydrochloric acid which activates the pepsin enzyme. It is also essential for the absorption of vitamin B12.
So, the correct option is ‘Antacid’.

Note: Antibiotics are chemicals used to stop the growth of or restrict bacterial growth. These can be consumed orally. Antiseptics are chemicals used to prevent sepsis or infection and they are mostly applied on external skin surfaces. Analgesics are medicines used to stop or suppress pain.