Description

What Is Gaviscon (Alginic Acid)?

Gaviscon (alginic acid) is one of a group of medicines known as reflux suppressants. Seaweed makes alginic acid. When it hits the stomach it creates a protective foam or barrier that floats on top of the stomach contents Therefore, the acid in the stomach is less likely to backflow into the food pipe.

Different Gaviscon products contain different ingredients and strengths. So always read the product label and patient information leaflet before use.

What Is Gaviscon Used For?

Gaviscon can help relieve symptoms of:

• Heartburn
• Heartburn
• Stomach upset
• burning pain after eating
• Discomfort due to reflux

It can take hold fairly fast and the effects of a dose can last for several hours. But if you have symptoms often, you need to talk to a healthcare professional instead of taking antacids or alginate medicines for a long time.

What Gaviscon Does

Gaviscon is different from medicines that just reduce the amount of acid made in the stomach. Alginic acid instead creates a protective coating over the contents of the stomach. So this barrier can help in reducing the flow of acidic stomach contents into the food pipe. Many Gaviscon products also contain antacid ingredients that help to neutralise stomach acid.

How should I take Gaviscon?

Gaviscon is available in various forms including liquids and chewable tablets. The precise directions will vary, depending on the product. Always follow the instructions on the pack or the advice of your chemist or doctor.

Gaviscon is usually taken after meals and at bedtime. However, formulations differ in strength, so you shouldn’t assume that each Gaviscon product contains an equivalent dose.

Important Safety Information

Gaviscon is suitable for many people but may not be appropriate for everyone. For example, individuals requiring a low sodium or low calcium diet or with certain kidney, liver or heart conditions should consult a healthcare professional before use.

Gaviscon can also affect the absorption of some medicines. The NHS recommends taking Gaviscon separately from some medications, such as some antibiotics, iron tablets, levothyroxine and bisphosphonates. If you are taking other medicines, ask a chemist about the right time to take it.

Acid Reflux and Lifestyle Tips

Medicine can help with symptoms but some lifestyle changes can be of benefit too. You can also eat less of foods that cause symptoms, cut back on caffeine and alcohol, not eat right before bed and not smoke. Some people can also help control reflux symptoms by maintaining a normal weight.

FAQs

Gaviscon contains alginic acid.

Gaviscon is a brand with various formulas. Many of the Gaviscon products contain alginic acid or alginate, often combined with antacid ingredients. So check the ingredients of the specific product you are using.

How fast does Gaviscon work?

Gaviscon generally takes effect soon after a dose, but the exact effect can vary by product and by individual.

**Can I take Gaviscon every day?**

If you find you need to use Gaviscon regularly, talk to a doctor or chemist. The NHS recommends that anyone buying Gaviscon over the counter should consult their doctor if symptoms have not improved after 7 days.

When to see a doctor

Seek medical advice if you have heartburn or indigestion that keeps coming back, is severe, or occurs with other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, repeated vomiting, unexplained weight loss or blood in the vomit or stool.

Overall

Alginic acid (an ingredient in Gaviscon) can help ease heartburn, acid reflux and indigestion by creating a protective barrier that may stop stomach contents from travelling upwards. Some formulations also contain antacids to help relieve discomfort caused by acid. However, different Gaviscon products contain different ingredients, so always follow the instructions on the product and ask a healthcare professional if your symptoms persist or if you take other medicines.