How To Reduce Gas & Bloating

Note: This article is part of our gay health series

Antacids and Tagamet, Pepcid, and simethicone are all common medications used to treat different digestive problems. 

Antacids work by neutralizing stomach acid, while Tagamet, Pepcid, and simethicone work by reducing stomach acid production. Simethicone is also used to break up gas bubbles in the digestive tract.

So, can you mix these medications? The answer is yes, it is generally safe to mix antacids with Tagamet, Pepcid, or simethicone. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, it is important to note that antacids can reduce the absorption of Tagamet, Pepcid, and simethicone. This means that if you take these medications together, they may not be as effective as they would be if you took them separately.

To avoid this, it is best to take antacids at least two hours before or after taking Tagamet, Pepcid, or simethicone. You should also avoid taking large doses of antacids, as this can also reduce the absorption of these medications.

Second, if you are taking any other medications, it is important to talk to your doctor before taking an antacid with Tagamet, Pepcid, or simethicone. Some medications can interact with these medications, so it is important to be sure that it is safe for you to take them together.

Research Studies

There have been a number of research studies that have looked at the safety of mixing antacids with Tagamet, Pepcid, or simethicone. These studies have found that it is generally safe to do so, but there are a few potential side effects that you should be aware of.

One potential side effect of mixing antacids with Tagamet, Pepcid, or simethicone is that it can reduce the absorption of these medications. This means that they may not be as effective as they would be if you took them separately.

Another potential side effect of mixing antacids with Tagamet, Pepcid, or simethicone is that it can cause diarrhea. This is because antacids can increase the amount of fluid in the digestive tract.

If you experience any side effects after mixing antacids with Tagamet, Pepcid, or simethicone, you should stop taking them and talk to your doctor.

But Does Mixing These Medications Work?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the most effective mix of drugs for reducing gas and bloating will vary depending on the individual's specific symptoms and medical history. However, some research studies have suggested that the following combination of drugs may be helpful:

• Simethicone. Simethicone is a gas-relief medication that works by breaking up gas bubbles in the digestive tract. It is available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquid.

• Alpha-galactosidase. Alpha-galactosidase (Beano) is an enzyme that helps break down certain carbohydrates that can cause gas. It is available in a dietary supplement form.

• Lactase. Lactase is an enzyme that helps break down lactose, a sugar found in milk. It is available in a dietary supplement form. NOTE: Lactase only works if you are lactose intolerant. 

A study published in the journal "Digestive Diseases and Sciences" found that taking simethicone and alpha-galactosidase together was more effective at reducing gas and bloating than taking either drug alone. 

The study also found that taking lactase was effective at reducing gas and bloating in people with lactose intolerance.

It is important to note that these medications may not be effective for everyone. If you are experiencing persistent gas and bloating, you should talk to your doctor.

The Best Combinations

The best combination of medications for reducing stomach gas and bloating will vary depending on the individual's specific symptoms and medical history. 

• Simethicone
• Gas-X
• Mylanta Gas
• Phazyme

• Alpha-galactosidase
• Beano
• Fast-Acting Beano
• Enzymedica Bean-O

• Lactase
• Lactaid
• DairyEase
• LactoJoy

• H2 Blockers
• Famotidine: Pepcid AC, Pepcid Complete, Zantac 360
• Cimetidine: Tagamet, Tagamet HB
• Nizatidine: Axid AR, Axid
• Ranitidine: Zantac (discontinued in the United States in April 2023 due to contamination)

• Activated Charcoal: Some studies suggest activated charcoal (Actidose-Aqua, CharcoalAid) can help reduce gas and bloating.

• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). PPIs work by blocking the production of acid in the stomach. They are available in prescription form only.