Description
Overview
How does Peptac Liquid treat heartburn and indigestion? Peptac Liquid is a compound alginate preparation that provides relief from the symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux. Peptac Liquid contains three main active ingredients: sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium carbonate. When Peptac Liquid is swallowed, it reacts with the acid found naturally in the stomach. This chemical reaction causes the alginate to expand and form a viscous, gel-like “raft” or foam. This raft floats on top of the stomach contents. By acting as a physical barrier, Peptac Liquid prevents the stomach acid from rising up into the oesophagus (food pipe), which is the primary cause of the burning sensation known as heartburn.
What is the role of the antacids in Peptac Liquid? In addition to forming a protective raft, the sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate in Peptac Liquid act as antacids. These ingredients work to neutralise excess stomach acid directly. By raising the pH level of the stomach contents, Peptac Liquid reduces the acidity of the fluid that may still splash up, thereby reducing the pain and irritation associated with indigestion. This dual action of suppressing reflux and neutralising acid makes Peptac Liquid a comprehensive treatment for gastric distress caused by eating, drinking, or lying down.
What is Peptac Liquid indicated for? Peptac Liquid is indicated for the treatment of heartburn, indigestion, and acid regurgitation. It is particularly useful for managing symptoms that occur after meals or during pregnancy. Peptac Liquid is also effective for treating reflux oesophagitis, a condition where the lining of the food pipe becomes inflamed due to constant acid exposure. The liquid formulation allows Peptac Liquid to coat the oesophagus as it goes down, providing immediate soothing relief.
Who Is It For
Who is Peptac Liquid suitable for? Peptac Liquid is suitable for adults and children aged 6 years and over. Peptac Liquid is specifically designed for individuals suffering from reflux symptoms who require a liquid medication for ease of swallowing or faster onset of action compared to tablets. Peptac Liquid is sugar-free, making it a suitable choice for diabetics or those monitoring their sugar intake. Peptac Liquid is an ideal option for pregnant women suffering from heartburn, provided they follow the dosage instructions.
Usage Instructions
How to take Peptac Liquid correctly? Peptac Liquid is for oral use. The bottle should be shaken well before use to ensure the active ingredients are evenly mixed.
Adults and children aged 12 years and over: The recommended dose is 10ml to 20ml (two to four 5ml spoonfuls) taken after meals and at bedtime.
Children aged 6 to 12 years: The recommended dose is 5ml to 10ml (one to two 5ml spoonfuls) taken after meals and at bedtime.
Why is timing important when taking Peptac Liquid? Peptac Liquid works best when the stomach has food in it, as the raft sits on top of the stomach contents. Taking Peptac Liquid after meals ensures that the raft forms effectively to stop post-prandial reflux. Taking Peptac Liquid at bedtime is crucial because lying down removes the help of gravity, making it easier for acid to flow back up the oesophagus. The protective barrier formed by Peptac Liquid helps to prevent this night-time reflux.
Warnings
When must Peptac Liquid not be used? Peptac Liquid must not be used by patients who are allergic to any of the ingredients, including the preservatives ethyl parahydroxybenzoate and propyl parahydroxybenzoate, which may cause allergic reactions. Peptac Liquid contains significant amounts of sodium and calcium. Therefore, Peptac Liquid must be used with caution in patients with congestive heart failure or renal impairment, where salt restriction is necessary. Peptac Liquid is not suitable for individuals with hypercalcaemia (high levels of calcium in the blood) or nephrocalcinosis (calcium deposits in the kidneys).
Does Peptac Liquid interact with other medicines? Peptac Liquid can affect the absorption of other medicines due to the change in stomach acidity and the physical barrier of the raft. As a general rule, users should leave a gap of 2 hours between taking Peptac Liquid and taking other oral medications, such as tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, iron salts, or digoxin.
Alternatives
Common alternatives to Peptac Liquid? If Peptac Liquid is not suitable due to taste or sodium content, common alternatives include:
Gaviscon Advance: A well-known brand containing a higher concentration of sodium alginate for a stronger raft formation, often prescribed for more severe reflux cases.
Rennie Peppermint Tablets: Chewable antacid tablets containing calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate, which neutralise acid but do not form a raft like Peptac Liquid.
Acidex Oral Suspension: A generic aniseed-flavoured liquid that contains similar active ingredients (alginate and antacids) to Peptac Liquid and works via the same mechanism.
Nexium Control: Contains esomeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) that reduces acid production at the source rather than neutralising it, suitable for frequent heartburn sufferers.
