Question

Which one of the following types of medicines is used for treating indigestion?
A.Antibiotic
B.Analgesic
C.Antacid
D.Antiseptic

Answer 1

The feeling of discomfort in the areas above the abdomen is known as indigestion. The excessive secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach causes indigestion. Indigestion is also known as acidity.

Complete step by step answer:
Indigestion is also known as dyspepsia or upset stomach. Indigestion is not a disease but it can be a symptom of an individual disease.
The major symptom of indigestion is heartburn along with nausea (a feeling of vomiting), severe pain in the abdomen and fullness of the abdomen.
Antacids neutralize the excess hydrochloric acid secreted and thus, help to relieve the heartburn.
Examples of antacids are: aluminum hydroxide, calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide and magnesium trisilicate.
The basic or alkaline ions liberated from the antacids neutralize the hydrochloric acid and thus reduce indigestion and relieve pain.
Thus, antacids are the medicines used for treating indigestion.

Thus, the correct option is option (C).

Additional Information:
The first organ where the food enters after chewing is known as the alimentary canal. The process of breakdown of food is done in the alimentary canal. The proteins are broken down by the proteolytic enzymes. These enzymes require very low pH to function. The hydrochloric acid is secreted by the oxyntic or parietal cells. Hydrochloric acid activates pepsin enzymes.

Note: The medicines used to inhibit the growth of bacteria are known as antibiotics. The medicines used to stop pain are known as analgesics. The medicines used to prevent any kind of infections are known as antiseptics.