Gaviscon (Alginic Acid) is an over-the-counter medication used to treat heartburn, indigestion, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Gastroesophageal reflux disease occurs when the acidic content of the stomach repeatedly flows back through the esophagus into the mouth, which irritates the esophagus, presenting as chest pain. The active ingredients in Gaviscon are Aluminium hydroxide, magnesium carbonate, and Alginic Acid. It neutralizes excess acid in the stomach and the associated pain and discomfort. It also forms a protective layer over the stomach wall to reduce the burning pain in the chest. Gaviscon should not be used to treat peptic ulcers.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Gaviscon from Canada manufactured by Advantage Solution. It is available in different flavors as tablets (Peppermint Flavored, fruit, and mint flavored tablets) and oral solution (Extra Strength Oral Liquid (Fruit Flavored, Icy Mint Flavored) and Regular Strength Oral Liquid (Fruit Flavored, Icy Mint Flavored). The tablet is available in a pack of 36 and 60 tablets, and the oral solution is in a pack of 340 ml and 600 ml solution. Unfortunately, the generic version is not available.
Get medical help immediately if you have any signs of an allergic reaction while taking Gaviscon. The most common side effects of Gaviscon may include the following:
• Abdominal pain;
• Diarrhea;
• Headache;
• Nausea;
• Vomiting
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the serious side effects, including:
• Allergic reactions such as itching, redness, blistered or peeling skin;
• Passing watery or bloody stool;
• Severe stomach pain;
• Wheezing, chest tightness, or having trouble breathing;
• Worsening of your condition
You should not take Gaviscon if you are allergic to it or have other allergies. Gaviscon comes as chewable tablets or as an oral solution that you can drink. You should chew the tablets, do not swallow them whole. You should read your medication leaflet carefully and follow the manufacturer direction on how to use it. You take Gaviscon tablets or oral liquid up to four times a day. It's best to take it after meals and at bedtime. This is usually when the pain and discomfort are at their worst. You should drink enough water with this medication. You should limit your alcoholic beverages and spicy food while treating indigestion with Gaviscon. Inform your doctor if there is no improvement in your symptoms. Before you start taking this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant;
• Are on a low salt or low magnesium diet;
• Have kidney problems;
• Have peptic ulcer disease
Tell your doctor immediately if you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant. You can take Gaviscon during pregnancy. However, if you have indigestion, it's best to try and treat it without taking medicine. Your doctor may advise you to eat smaller meals often, avoid spicy foods, and raise the head of your bed a little. Gaviscon passes into breast milk, which may affect the baby. You should consult your doctor before breastfeeding your child. Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be a drug interaction between Gaviscon and other medications such as aspirin, ciprofloxacin, digoxin, tetracycline, and ibuprofen.
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