Sodium Alginate + Sodium Bicarbonate + Calcium Carbonate

OTC

Generic NameSodium Alginate + Sodium Bicarbonate + Calcium Carbonate

Therapeutic ClassAntacid / Gastroprotective

Common StrengthSodium Alginate 500 mg + Sodium Bicarbonate 267 mg + Calcium Carbonate 160 mg per 10 mL suspension

PregnancyGenerally considered safe

Indications ▼

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Relief of heartburn, regurgitation, and epigastric discomfort due to acid reflux.

Acid Indigestion & Sour Stomach: Symptomatic relief of hyperacidity, postprandial discomfort, and dyspepsia.

Adjunct Therapy: Often used along with lifestyle modifications to control symptoms in patients with chronic reflux.

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Sodium alginate forms a floating gel (raft) on gastric contents, reducing reflux. Sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate act as systemic and local antacids, neutralizing gastric acid to relieve symptoms.

Pharmacokinetics: Minimal systemic absorption; acts locally in stomach/esophagus. Rapid onset 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 well before use. Avoid exceeding recommended dose. Separate administration from other oral medications by 1–2 hours.

Side Effects ▼

Mild constipation or diarrhea

Bloating or flatulence

Rare: hypersensitivity reactions, nausea

Excess calcium or sodium intake may affect electrolyte balance in long-term use

Contraindications ▼

Hypersensitivity to any component

Severe renal impairment (caution with sodium/calcium content)

Hypercalcemia or metabolic alkalosis

Drug Interaction ▼

May reduce absorption of some oral drugs (e.g., tetracyclines, digoxin); separate by 1–2 hours.

Concurrent systemic alkalinizing agents may increase risk of metabolic alkalosis.

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Generally considered safe; consult physician before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Clinical Role: First-line therapy for symptomatic relief of GERD and hyperacidity.

Advantage: Rapid symptom relief, minimal systemic absorption, combination of raft-forming and antacid action.

Limitation: Symptomatic relief only; may affect electrolyte balance in prolonged use.

Monitoring: Observe for constipation, diarrhea, or electrolyte disturbances in long-term therapy.

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Take after meals and at bedtime

Shake suspension well before use

Do not exceed recommended dose

Separate from other oral medications by 1–2 hours

Report constipation, diarrhea, or unusual fatigue (possible electrolyte imbalance)

Storage & Handling ▼

Store below 30°C

Protect from moisture and light

Keep out of reach of children

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh:

Abicon Max Suspension Abicon Plus Suspension Algicid DX Suspension Algicid Plus Suspension Algicar Plus Suspension Algisum Max Suspension Asynta Max Gascon Suspension Gaviscon Oral Suspension Gavis Suspension Gavisol Suspension Naviscon Gavifil Chewable Tablet Gaviflux Gaviplus Suspension Gavirad Suspension Gastrocon R Suspension

Global:

Gaviscon Advance®

Medical Disclaimer: For educational purposes only. Not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Antacids • Condition: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)