Gaviscon Anti-Reflux Antacid Peppermint Oral Suspension

It is used to treat acidity and indigestion. It provides quick and lasting relief from pain and discomfort caused due to heartburn and gas troubles such as bloating and belching. It also helps to improve the symptoms of acidity such as abdominal pain and stomach discomfort. It is known to work by neutralizing stomach acid in the body.

It contains sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium carbonate. Sodium alginate reacts with the acid in your stomach to form a thick gel-like layer. These gum-like substances (insoluble compounds) float on the gastric fluids to protect the esophagus from acid exposure. In simple terms, they act as a barrier thereby aiding in reducing the effect of the acid on the stomach and providing relief from the symptoms.

Calcium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate also react with stomach acid, releasing bubbles of carbon dioxide. These bubbles allow the gel to form a strong protective barrier on top of the stomach contents, which helps to prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Sodium bicarbonate neutralizes the stomach acid and makes its pH more neutral. It is a short-acting antacid which means it dissolves quickly to exert a rapid buffering action. Antacids that contain calcium carbonate are known to provide short-term relief as they have a strong neutralizing capacity. 

It is a sugar-free and gluten-free antacid that offers a quick solution. This syrup is safe when taken as advised by your doctor. It is also recommended for use in children above 12 years of age as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women. However, if your symptoms do not improve or if your condition worsens, then consult your doctor immediately. It is best to take this medicine after meals, preferably at bedtime or as advised by the physician. 

Key ingredients:

• Sodium Alginate I.P: 250 mg

• Sodium Bicarbonate I.P:133.5 mg

• Calcium CarbonateI.P: 80 mg

Key benefits/uses of Gaviscon Anti-Reflux Antacid Oral Suspension Peppermint:

• Useful in conditions of heartburn and indigestion

• Provides effective relief in just 3 minutes

• Provides relief for up to 4 hours which is 2 times longer than normal antacids

• Safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women

• Helps to improve the symptoms of acidity such as abdominal pain and stomach discomfort

• Neutralizes the stomach acid in the body providing quick relief

• Helps reduce pain and discomfort caused due to heartburn and gas troubles such as bloating and belching

• Is sugar-free and gluten-free 

Directions for use:

Adults are advised to consume 10 -20 ml of this liquid post meals and at bedtime or as directed by their doctor. The same rule applies to elderly people and children above 12 years of age. It is considered to be safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, for kids below 12 years of age, it is recommended to be taken only after medical advice.

Quick tips for Gaviscon Anti-Reflux Antacid Oral Suspension Peppermint:

• As the product contains sodium, people who are on a controlled sodium diet such as those with hypertension, congestive heart failure, and renal impairment, need to talk to their doctor before taking this medicine.

• Consult your doctor if your symptoms fail to improve or if you experience any side-effects after taking this medicine.

• In case of accidental overdose, please consult your doctor although it may not cause any serious harm.

• Antacids may interact with certain prescription drugs, so talk to your doctor before taking this if you are taking any prescription drugs.

• Shake the bottle well before use so that all the constituents of the liquid are mixed well.

• If you are allergic to this medicine or any of its ingredients, then talk to your doctor to know a better-suited option for you.

Side-effects of Gaviscon Anti-Reflux Antacid Oral Suspension Peppermint:

The medicine doesn't cause any side-effects when taken as advised by your doctor. However, in case of overdose, it may lead to bloating. Do not use the maximum dosage for more than 2 weeks except under the advice and supervision of a doctor.

Storage and safety information:

• Read the label carefully before use.

• Keep away from children.

• Use under medical supervision.

• Do not exceed the recommended dosage.

• Store in a cool and dry place.

• Do not store above 30 degrees.

• Do not freeze or refrigerate.

• Check the cap seal before use (do not use it if the seal is broken before first use).

FAQs related to Gaviscon Anti-Reflux Antacid Oral Suspension Peppermint:

Q. What is Gaviscon Anti-Reflux Antacid used for?

It is used to treat acidity and indigestion. It provides quick and lasting relief from pain and discomfort caused due to heartburn and gas troubles such as bloating and belching. It also helps to improve the symptoms of acidity such as abdominal pain and stomach discomfort. It is known to work by neutralizing stomach acid in the body.

Q. When should I take Gaviscon Anti-Reflux Antacid?

It is an antacid that is known to provide effective relief from acidity and its symptoms such as heartburn, stomach discomfort, and abdominal pain. So if you are suffering from acidity or any of the symptoms such as gas or stomach discomfort due to acidity, you can take this medicine.

Q. Can I take Gaviscon Anti-Reflux Antacid if I am pregnant?

This antacid is known to be safe in pregnant as well as breastfeeding women. However, if you have a doubt or are taking any other medications, then it is wise to consult your gynecologist before taking it.

Q. What is the dose for taking Gaviscon Anti-Reflux Antacid?

Adults are advised to consume 10 -20 ml of this liquid post meals and at bedtime or as directed by their doctor. The same rule applies to elderly people and children above 12 years of age. However, for kids below 12 years of age, it is recommended to be taken only after medical advice.

Q. What are antacids?

The medications used to treat heartburn either work by blocking the production of the stomach acids or aid in neutralizing the stomach acid. Based on their action mechanism, these drugs are classified into three main categories namely antacids, H2 receptor blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). 

Antacids are further  divided into different categories based on the ingredients they contain which include sodium bicarbonate, magnesium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide, calcium carbonate, and alginate variants

Q. How to prevent acidity?

Avoid excess intake of oily, spicy, and salty foods and carbonated drinks. Eat small, frequent meals and opt for a low-carbohydrate and high fiber diet. Say no to alcohol and limit intake of coffee as well. Avoid eating late at night and always chew your food properly. 

Do not exercise or sleep immediately after meals. Keep a tab on your weight and drink loads of water. Try home remedies such as ginger, cold milk, mint, etc to get rid of acidity. Opt over the counter (OTC) antacids to fight acid reflux.

References:

1. Gaviscon Products

2. Antacids. IFFGD

3. Antacids. StatPearls.