Algicar Plus
Generic Name
Aluminium Hydroxide + Magnesium Hydroxide + Simethicone
Manufacturer
General Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| algicar plus 500 mg suspension | ৳ 250.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Algicar Plus 500 mg Suspension is an antacid and antiflatulent medication used to relieve symptoms of indigestion, heartburn, sour stomach, and gas. It combines aluminium hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide to neutralize stomach acid, and simethicone to break up gas bubbles.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
2 to 4 teaspoonfuls (10-20 ml) 3-4 times a day, after meals and at bedtime, or as directed by physician.
Elderly
No specific dosage adjustment is generally needed, but caution in renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution; avoid high doses or prolonged use due to risk of magnesium and aluminum accumulation. Consult a physician.
How to Take
Shake the bottle well before each use. Take orally with water if desired. Do not take with milk or dairy products as they may interfere with the absorption of other medications.
Mechanism of Action
Aluminium hydroxide and Magnesium hydroxide neutralize gastric acid, increasing stomach pH. Simethicone acts as an antifoaming agent, reducing the surface tension of gas bubbles in the gastrointestinal tract, causing them to coalesce and be more easily expelled.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 5-15 minutes (for acid neutralization).
Excretion
Mostly excreted via feces. Small amounts of absorbed magnesium and aluminum are excreted renally.
Half life
Not applicable for antacids; systemic absorption is minimal.
Absorption
Minimal systemic absorption of Aluminium Hydroxide and Magnesium Hydroxide. Simethicone is not absorbed systemically.
Metabolism
Not significantly metabolized systemically.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation
- Severe renal impairment (risk of magnesium toxicity and aluminum accumulation)
- Hypophosphatemia (risk of worsening due to aluminum binding phosphate)
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Reduced absorption. Avoid concurrent use.
Thyroid hormones
May reduce absorption. Take antacids at least 4 hours after thyroid hormones.
Iron salts & Digoxin
Reduced absorption. Administer antacids several hours apart.
Tetracyclines & Fluoroquinolones
Reduced absorption when taken concurrently with antacids. Separate administration by 2-4 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include severe constipation or diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or electrolyte imbalance (e.g., hypermagnesemia, hypophosphatemia). In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation when taken as directed for short-term relief. However, always consult a doctor before use, especially for prolonged periods.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the formulation
- Severe renal impairment (risk of magnesium toxicity and aluminum accumulation)
- Hypophosphatemia (risk of worsening due to aluminum binding phosphate)
Drug Interactions
Bisphosphonates
Reduced absorption. Avoid concurrent use.
Thyroid hormones
May reduce absorption. Take antacids at least 4 hours after thyroid hormones.
Iron salts & Digoxin
Reduced absorption. Administer antacids several hours apart.
Tetracyclines & Fluoroquinolones
Reduced absorption when taken concurrently with antacids. Separate administration by 2-4 hours.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place, below 30°C. Protect from light. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include severe constipation or diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or electrolyte imbalance (e.g., hypermagnesemia, hypophosphatemia). In case of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation when taken as directed for short-term relief. However, always consult a doctor before use, especially for prolonged periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved (General OTC/Prescription)
Patent Status
Generic available
Clinical Trials
Widely studied and established combination for symptomatic relief of acid-related conditions.
Lab Monitoring
- For patients with renal impairment or on prolonged high doses, periodic monitoring of serum magnesium, phosphate, and calcium levels may be necessary.
- No routine lab monitoring is needed for short-term use in healthy individuals.
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on proper administration and potential drug interactions, especially with antibiotics like tetracyclines/fluoroquinolones.
- Emphasize caution in patients with chronic renal failure due to risk of electrolyte imbalance and aluminum toxicity.
- Advise lifestyle modifications alongside medication for optimal management of dyspepsia.
Patient Guidelines
- Shake the bottle well before each use.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose without consulting a doctor.
- If symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks, consult a physician.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Algicar Plus 500 mg Suspension is not known to impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid foods and drinks that trigger indigestion (e.g., fatty foods, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol).
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones.
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating.
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Global Brand Names
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