Aluminum hydroxide: Nausea, headache, weakness, loss of appetite, and constipation

Magnesium hydroxide: Diarrhea

These drugs are used mainly to relieve symptoms, not as a cure.

Rash, fever, diarrhea, muscle pains, and confusion

Cimetidine: May cause breast enlargement and erectile dysfunction in men and may interfere with elimination of certain drugs

The once-daily dose is taken in the evening or at bedtime. Doses taken in the morning are less effective.

Diarrhea, constipation, and headache

These drugs are usually well tolerated and are most effective means of reducing stomach acid.

Misoprostol: Abdominal cramping, spontaneous abortion, diarrhea

Sucralfate: May reduce absorption of other drugs, constipation

Misoprostol is rarely used for treatment of stomach disorders due to the side effects.

Sucralfate does not affect acid production but coats stomach ulcers to protect them from acid.