The Routine Determination of the Antacid Efficiency of Aluminium Hydroxide Gels

Abstract

Summary In vitro methods for assessing the therapeutic value of antacids have been discussed in relation to the routine evaluation of aluminium hydroxide gels. Experiments based on these tests and the conclusions drawn from the discussion have been carried out with a view to establishing a suitable routine test. A form of test has been given in detail and limits have been suggested.

An in Vitro Study of Antacids: Methods and Modifying Factors

“…HE INTRODUCTION of compounds and mixTtures to combat stomach acidity has been accompanied by the development of in vitro methods to determine their relative efficiency (1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(6)(7)(8)(9). The development of in vitro methods to evaluate the acid-neutralizing capacity of various compounds is relatively easy; however, correlation of these results with the in vitro results of other investigators and with in Vivo results is very dif- ficult. This correlation of results is hindered in some instances by the frequently observed differences in antacid activity of the same compound between different manufacturers and between lots from the same manufacturer (1-3, 5,6,11,13).…”

“…The inherent differences in the methods are a result of arbitrary standardization of such factors as temperature, rate, and conditions of agitation, and composition of testing medium, all of which have been shown t o modify the results (7,10,12). Finally, variability of in vioo conditions even of the same individual and the antacid needs of different individuals, all make i t difficult to correlate and evaluate the results of these methods.…”