[Protective effect of an antacid against acetylsalicylic acid]

The protective action of an magnesium-aluminum-antacid (Mucal-Gel) against acute doses of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) was studied in healthy subjects (n = 30) by a double-blind cross-over method. The severity of the lesion was determined by endoscopy. In the corresponding placebo experiments, severe lesions of the gastroduodenal mucosa were seen after administration of 1500 mg ASA. These lesions could be prevented only in the presence of high doses of the antacidum mixture. It is concluded from these studies that protective actions against ASA can be achieved only if the intragastric pH-level is adequately raised above 3.5 and higher.