Description
Overview
How do Gaviscon Chewable Tablets work to stop heartburn? Gaviscon Chewable Tablets contain three active ingredients that work together to treat the symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux. The primary ingredient is sodium alginate which is naturally derived from seaweed. When sodium alginate comes into contact with the acid in the stomach it reacts to form a thick and gel-like raft. This raft floats on top of the stomach contents and creates a physical barrier. This barrier prevents the acidic stomach contents from rising up into the oesophagus or food pipe which is the process that causes the burning sensation known as heartburn.
The other active ingredients are sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate. These are antacids that neutralise the excess stomach acid. By reducing the acidity in the stomach Gaviscon Chewable Tablets relieve the pain of indigestion and soothe the inflamed lining of the stomach. The chewing action also stimulates the production of saliva which is alkaline and helps to further neutralise acid in the oesophagus.
What specific conditions do Gaviscon Chewable Tablets treat? Gaviscon Chewable Tablets are indicated for the relief of acid reflux, heartburn, and indigestion. Gaviscon Chewable Tablets are particularly effective for treating gastric reflux that occurs after eating heavy or spicy meals. Gaviscon Chewable Tablets are also used to manage the symptoms of hiatus hernia which is a condition where part of the stomach pushes up into the chest. Because Gaviscon Chewable Tablets work physically rather than entering the bloodstream they act quickly to provide relief.
Who Is It For
Who are Gaviscon Chewable Tablets suitable for? Gaviscon Chewable Tablets are suitable for adults and children aged 12 years and over. Gaviscon Chewable Tablets are widely recommended for pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers. This is because heartburn is a very common symptom during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and the pressure of the growing baby on the stomach. Since Gaviscon Chewable Tablets do not enter the bloodstream to any significant extent they are considered safe for the developing baby.
Usage Instructions
How to take Gaviscon Chewable Tablets correctly? Gaviscon Chewable Tablets must be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. They should not be swallowed whole as the chewing process releases the active ingredients and allows them to start working immediately.
Adults and children aged 12 years and over: The recommended dose is 2 to 4 tablets taken after meals and at bedtime.
When is the best time to take Gaviscon Chewable Tablets? It is most effective to take Gaviscon Chewable Tablets after eating and before going to sleep. Taking Gaviscon Chewable Tablets after a meal ensures that the protective raft forms on top of the food. Taking Gaviscon Chewable Tablets at bedtime is crucial because lying flat can make it easier for acid to leak back up into the oesophagus. The raft helps to keep the acid down while the user is sleeping.
Warnings
When must Gaviscon Chewable Tablets not be used? Gaviscon Chewable Tablets are not suitable for patients with severe kidney problems or those who are on a strictly controlled sodium diet. This is because Gaviscon Chewable Tablets contain sodium and calcium which can accumulate in the body if the kidneys are not functioning properly. Gaviscon Chewable Tablets often contain aspartame which is a source of phenylalanine. Therefore Gaviscon Chewable Tablets must not be used by people with phenylketonuria which is a rare genetic disorder affecting metabolism.
Safety advice and potential interactions? Gaviscon Chewable Tablets can interfere with the absorption of certain antibiotics such as tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones. To prevent this interaction users should leave a gap of 2 hours between taking Gaviscon Chewable Tablets and taking other medicines. If symptoms persist after 7 days of continuous use the user should consult a doctor to rule out more serious underlying conditions.
Alternatives
Common alternatives to Gaviscon Chewable Tablets? If Gaviscon Chewable Tablets are not suitable or a stronger formulation is required common alternatives include:
Gaviscon Double Action Tablets: These contain a higher concentration of calcium carbonate to provide stronger neutralisation of stomach acid alongside the raft-forming alginate.
Gaviscon Advance Liquid: A high-strength aniseed or peppermint liquid that contains double the concentration of sodium alginate compared to standard Gaviscon Chewable Tablets for severe or persistent reflux.
Rennie Peppermint Tablets: Calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate tablets that effectively neutralise stomach acid to relieve simple indigestion but do not form a protective raft.
Nexium Control Tablets: Contains esomeprazole which is a proton pump inhibitor that reduces the amount of acid produced by the stomach for 24-hour protection rather than providing instant relief.
