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.

Altered taste and nausea

Amoxicillin, clarithromycin, or tetracycline: Diarrhea

These drugs are effective for treating peptic ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori infection.

Diarrhea

Bismuth subsalicylate: Darkening of the tongue and stool, constipation

Misoprostol: Abdominal cramping, spontaneous abortion

Sucralfate: May reduce absorption of other drugs, constipation

Bismuth subsalicylate is used in combination with antibiotics to cure H. pylori infection.