Gavicid
Generic Name
Aluminium Hydroxide & Magnesium Hydroxide Suspension
Manufacturer
PharmaCo Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| gavicid 500 mg suspension | ৳ 250.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Gavicid 500 mg Suspension is an antacid preparation used for the relief of symptoms associated with hyperacidity, such as heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
10-20 mL (1-2 spoonfuls) 4 times daily, 20-60 minutes after meals and at bedtime, or as directed by physician.
Elderly
Same as adult dose, but caution in renal impairment due to risk of hypermagnesemia or aluminum accumulation.
Renal_impairment
Reduced dose may be required; consult a physician, especially for magnesium-containing antacids due to risk of hypermagnesemia. Avoid in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Shake well before use. Take orally, preferably after meals and at bedtime. Do not exceed recommended dose without medical advice.
Mechanism of Action
It works by neutralizing excess stomach acid, thereby reducing the burning sensation and discomfort caused by hyperacidity.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Within 10-15 minutes.
Excretion
Unabsorbed components are excreted in feces; small amounts of absorbed magnesium may be excreted renally, and aluminum mainly excreted renally in absorbed form.
Half life
Not applicable for local acting antacids, as systemic absorption is minimal. Any absorbed magnesium is rapidly cleared by kidneys.
Absorption
Minimal systemic absorption of aluminum and magnesium salts, primarily acts locally within the gastrointestinal tract.
Metabolism
Not significantly metabolized systemically due to minimal absorption.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the suspension
- Severe renal impairment
- Hypophosphatemia
Drug Interactions
NSAIDS
Antacids may reduce irritation caused by NSAIDs but should not be relied upon to prevent NSAID-induced ulcers.
Digoxin
May decrease digoxin absorption. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
Levothyroxine
May decrease absorption of thyroid hormones. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.
Iron supplements
Decreases absorption of iron. Take Gavicid at least 2 hours apart from iron supplements.
Tetracyclines & Quinolones
Decreases absorption of these antibiotics. Administer Gavicid 2-4 hours before or after these medications.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms may include diarrhea (magnesium) or constipation (aluminum), and abdominal discomfort. In severe renal impairment, hypermagnesemia or aluminum toxicity may occur. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for occasional use in recommended doses. Consult a physician for regular use or if symptoms persist. Minimal systemic absorption suggests low risk.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to any component of the suspension
- Severe renal impairment
- Hypophosphatemia
Drug Interactions
NSAIDS
Antacids may reduce irritation caused by NSAIDs but should not be relied upon to prevent NSAID-induced ulcers.
Digoxin
May decrease digoxin absorption. Separate administration by at least 2 hours.
Levothyroxine
May decrease absorption of thyroid hormones. Separate administration by at least 4 hours.
Iron supplements
Decreases absorption of iron. Take Gavicid at least 2 hours apart from iron supplements.
Tetracyclines & Quinolones
Decreases absorption of these antibiotics. Administer Gavicid 2-4 hours before or after these medications.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from light and moisture. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms may include diarrhea (magnesium) or constipation (aluminum), and abdominal discomfort. In severe renal impairment, hypermagnesemia or aluminum toxicity may occur. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for occasional use in recommended doses. Consult a physician for regular use or if symptoms persist. Minimal systemic absorption suggests low risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Generic
Clinical Trials
Extensive clinical experience and established efficacy for common antacid combinations; specific trials for Gavicid brand would depend on manufacturer's new formulation claims.
Lab Monitoring
- Electrolyte levels (magnesium, phosphate, calcium) in patients with renal impairment or prolonged high-dose use.
- Kidney function tests.
Doctor Notes
- Remind patients about drug interaction potential, particularly with antibiotics (tetracyclines, quinolones), iron, and thyroid hormones. Advise spacing doses appropriately.
- Counsel patients on lifestyle modifications to manage hyperacidity symptoms.
- Monitor for electrolyte imbalances (especially magnesium and phosphate) in patients with renal dysfunction or those on long-term, high-dose therapy.
- Avoid in patients with confirmed hypophosphatemia.
Patient Guidelines
- Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure uniform suspension.
- Do not take other medications within 1-2 hours of taking Gavicid, as it can affect their absorption.
- Consult a doctor if symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks, as this may indicate a more serious underlying condition.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Gavicid 500 mg Suspension is not expected to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid trigger foods such as spicy, fatty, or acidic foods, and caffeine.
- 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 if acid reflux is a nocturnal issue.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
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Global Brand Names
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