The components of Alka Seltzer come together to form a pain reliever and antacid formulation. Aspirin is classified as a Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug and has the function of a pain-killer, helping to reduce inflammation, fever and pain within the body by reducing the production of a substance called prostaglandins which are “hormone-like substances” (Drugs 2017) that regulate the inflammation and cause the bodies pains and headaches.(Merck Animal Health)
The Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate (NaHCO3) and Citric acid on the other hand react together in the aqueous solution to form sodium citrate. The sodium citrate produced is able to neutralise the HCl produced in the stomach by exchanging the H+ in the solution with the Na+ forming citric acid, which is a weaker acid than hydrochloric acid. There is also an excess amount of Sodium Bicarbonate present with solution and the bicarbonate ions act as the main buffering agents neutralising any acid or alkali added producing water. (UMN 2000); the NaHCO3 is an antacid, so also helps neutralise stomach acidity, relieving acid indigestion and heartburn. …show more content…
The buffer also helps stop the build up acid in the stomach so is much more effective than just an aspirin tablet as it simultaneously is able to relieve pains and fevers just as aspirin does whilst also minimising the chances of an upset
The Sodium Hydrogen Carbonate (NaHCO3) and Citric acid on the other hand react together in the aqueous solution to form sodium citrate. The sodium citrate produced is able to neutralise the HCl produced in the stomach by exchanging the H+ in the solution with the Na+ forming citric acid, which is a weaker acid than hydrochloric acid. There is also an excess amount of Sodium Bicarbonate present with solution and the bicarbonate ions act as the main buffering agents neutralising any acid or alkali added producing water. (UMN 2000); the NaHCO3 is an antacid, so also helps neutralise stomach acidity, relieving acid indigestion and heartburn. …show more content…
The buffer also helps stop the build up acid in the stomach so is much more effective than just an aspirin tablet as it simultaneously is able to relieve pains and fevers just as aspirin does whilst also minimising the chances of an upset