Which one of the following type of medicines is used for treating indigestion ?

Indigestion occurs when the stomach produces excessive hydrochloric acid, leading to pain and irritation [1]. Antacids are medicines used to treat this condition by neutralizing the excess acid [5]. They are typically mild bases, such as magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia), which counteract the acidity to provide relief [1]. Antacids are most effective when taken with food or shortly after eating, as this is when indigestion and heartburn symptoms are most likely to occur [5]. In contrast, other options serve different medical purposes: analgesics like ibuprofen and aspirin are used to reduce pain and fever [3], antibiotics target bacterial infections [4], and antiseptics are used to clean wounds and prevent the growth of microorganisms on the skin [2]. Therefore, antacids are the specific class of medicine indicated for treating indigestion.

Sources

1. [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 2: Acids, Bases and Salts > pH in our digestive system > p. 27
2. [3] Environment and Ecology, Majid Hussain (Access publishing 3rd ed.) > Chapter 12: Major Crops and Cropping Patterns in India > Table III Pharmaceutical Plants, Drugs and Use > p. 90
3. [2] Science ,Class VIII . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 3: Health: The Ultimate Treasure > Activity 3.7: Let us infer > p. 41
4. [4] Science ,Class VIII . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 3: Health: The Ultimate Treasure > 3.5.1 Treatment of diseases > p. 39