Algicon
Generic Name
Sodium Alginate + Sodium Bicarbonate + Calcium Carbonate Suspension
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
algicon 500 mg suspension | ৳ 125.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Algicon-500 mg Suspension is an oral liquid medication formulated to provide symptomatic relief from acid reflux, heartburn, and indigestion. It combines the action of an alginate, which forms a protective raft on top of stomach contents, with antacids that neutralize stomach acid.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
10-20 ml after meals and at bedtime, up to 4 times a day, or as directed by a physician.
Elderly
No special dosage adjustment is generally required.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution in patients with severe renal impairment due to potential for increased sodium and calcium load. Consult a doctor before use.
How to Take
For oral administration. Shake the bottle well before each use. Take the measured dose after meals and at bedtime. Do not dilute.
Mechanism of Action
Upon contact with stomach acid, sodium alginate forms a viscous, protective gel (a 'raft') that floats on the surface of the stomach contents, acting as a physical barrier to prevent reflux into the esophagus. Sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate provide rapid acid neutralization, reducing the acidity of the stomach contents.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid, typically within minutes of administration.
Excretion
Excreted primarily via feces (unabsorbed alginate and calcium carbonate). Absorbed sodium/calcium are renally excreted.
Half life
Not applicable for alginates as they act locally. Antacid effects are immediate and short-lived.
Absorption
Alginates are not absorbed systemically and act locally. Sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate are minimally absorbed systemically, providing local acid neutralization.
Metabolism
Alginates are not metabolized systemically and are excreted unchanged. Bicarbonate is used in acid neutralization reactions.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, or any other excipients.
- Patients with severe renal impairment.
- Patients with hypophosphatemia.
Drug Interactions
Thiazide diuretics
Concurrent use with calcium carbonate may increase serum calcium levels.
Iron salts, Thyroid hormones, Digoxin
Absorption may be reduced. Administer Algicon-500 mg Suspension at a different time.
Antibiotics (e.g., Tetracyclines, Fluoroquinolones)
Antacids can reduce the absorption of certain antibiotics. Separate administration by at least 2 hours before or 4-6 hours after.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Do not freeze. Keep in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include abdominal discomfort, bloating, or flatulence. In very high doses or prolonged use, electrolyte disturbances (e.g., hypercalcemia, metabolic alkalosis) can occur. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation. However, as with all medicines, consult your doctor or pharmacist before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date when stored as per recommendations.
Availability
Pharmacies, Drug stores, Supermarkets
Approval Status
Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by FDA, Approved by DGDA
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials and studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of alginate-based antacids in the management of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and related symptoms.
Lab Monitoring
- In cases of prolonged high-dose use, especially in patients with renal impairment, monitoring of serum calcium and sodium levels may be advisable.
Doctor Notes
- Emphasize the importance of lifestyle modifications alongside medication for effective GERD management.
- Advise patients to separate Algicon administration from other medications by at least 2 hours to avoid absorption interference.
- Monitor electrolyte levels (especially calcium and sodium) in patients with prolonged use, renal impairment, or concurrent use of interacting drugs.
Patient Guidelines
- Shake the bottle thoroughly before each dose.
- Follow the recommended dosage and do not exceed it.
- If symptoms do not improve after 7 days, consult your doctor.
- Keep this medicine out of sight and reach of children.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Algicon-500 mg Suspension is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid trigger foods such as fatty, spicy, acidic, or chocolate-containing meals.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones.
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating; wait at least 2-3 hours.
- Elevate the head of your bed to help prevent nocturnal reflux.
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