Sodium Alginate + Potassium Bicarbonate
OTC
Generic NameSodium Alginate + Potassium Bicarbonate
Therapeutic ClassAntacid / Gastroprotective
Common StrengthSodium Alginate 500 mg + Potassium Bicarbonate 267 mg per 10 mL suspension
PregnancyGenerally considered safe
Indications ▼
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Symptomatic relief of heartburn, acid regurgitation, and epigastric discomfort due to acid reflux.
Acid Indigestion: Relief of symptoms related to hyperacidity, sour stomach, and postprandial discomfort.
Adjunct Therapy: Often used in combination with lifestyle modifications for long-term symptom control.
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Sodium alginate forms a viscous gel (raft) that floats on gastric contents, reducing reflux into the esophagus. Potassium bicarbonate acts as a mild systemic antacid, neutralizing gastric acid and increasing pH, providing symptomatic relief.
Pharmacokinetics: Not significantly absorbed systemically. Acts locally in the stomach and esophagus. Onset of action is rapid, usually within 10–30 minutes.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Indication | Dose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Adults & Children >12 yrs | 10–20 mL suspension or 2–4 tablets | After meals and at bedtime |
| Children 6–12 yrs | 5–10 mL suspension | After meals and at bedtime |
Note: Shake suspension well before use. Do not exceed recommended daily dose. Avoid concurrent intake with other oral medications as it may interfere with absorption.
Side Effects ▼
Mild constipation or diarrhea
Bloating or flatulence
Rare: hypersensitivity reactions, nausea
Contraindications ▼
Hypersensitivity to sodium alginate, potassium bicarbonate, or excipients
Severe renal impairment (caution with potassium content)
Drug Interaction ▼
May reduce absorption of some drugs (e.g., tetracyclines, digoxin); separate administration by 1–2 hours.
Concurrent use with other systemic alkalinizing agents may increase risk of metabolic alkalosis (rare).
Pregnancy & Lactation ▼
Generally considered safe; consult physician before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding
Clinical / Research Summary ▼
Clinical Role: First-line symptomatic therapy for GERD and acid-related discomfort.
Advantage: Rapid onset, local action, minimal systemic absorption, safe for most patients.
Limitation: Symptomatic relief only; does not treat underlying GERD pathology.
Monitoring: Observe for constipation, diarrhea, and electrolyte imbalance in long-term use.
Patient Counseling Points ▼
Take after meals and at bedtime for best effect
Shake suspension well before use
Do not exceed recommended dose
Separate from other oral medications by 1–2 hours
Storage & Handling ▼
Store below 30°C
Protect from moisture and light
Keep out of reach of children
Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼
Algicid
Algicon
Asynta
Algisum
Abicon
Algerd
Blocid
Viscocid
Gastrocon
Gelid
Gerdex
Lagita
Foos
Gasoflux
Xerocid
Renacid
Onvicon
Gascon
Medical Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.
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