Gaviscon
Generic Name
Sodium Alginate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Calcium Carbonate Suspension
Manufacturer
Reckitt Benckiser
Country
United Kingdom
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| gaviscon 500 mg suspension | ৳ 127.08 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Gaviscon 500 mg Suspension is an antacid and anti-reflux agent used to treat heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux. It works by forming a protective layer (raft) on top of the stomach contents to prevent acid from coming back up into the esophagus.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
10-20 ml after meals and at bedtime. Maximum 80 ml in 24 hours.
Elderly
Adult dosage applies.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution in severe renal impairment due to sodium and calcium content, although systemic absorption is minimal.
How to Take
Shake the bottle well before use. Take orally after meals and at bedtime. Do not dilute.
Mechanism of Action
Upon contact with gastric acid, sodium alginate precipitates to form a viscous gel which floats on top of the stomach contents, forming a protective physical barrier (raft) that prevents the reflux of acid into the esophagus. Sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate provide additional acid neutralizing effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Typically within 5-10 minutes.
Excretion
Excreted unchanged in the faeces.
Half life
Not applicable due to minimal systemic absorption and local action.
Absorption
The active ingredients (sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate) are minimally absorbed systemically. The primary action is local.
Metabolism
Not metabolized systemically.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients
- Patients on a strict sodium-restricted diet (relative contraindication due to sodium content)
- Hypercalcaemia or conditions predisposing to it
Drug Interactions
Iron salts
May reduce absorption. Take Gaviscon at least 2 hours before or after iron supplements.
Tetracycline antibiotics
Gaviscon may reduce the absorption of tetracyclines. Take Gaviscon at least 2 hours before or after tetracycline antibiotics.
Fluoroquinolone antibiotics
May reduce absorption. Take Gaviscon at least 2 hours before or after fluoroquinolones.
Thyroid hormones (e.g., levothyroxine)
May reduce absorption. Administer with an adequate time interval.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose is generally associated with mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating or abdominal pain. No serious adverse effects are typically expected.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation, but consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients
- Patients on a strict sodium-restricted diet (relative contraindication due to sodium content)
- Hypercalcaemia or conditions predisposing to it
Drug Interactions
Iron salts
May reduce absorption. Take Gaviscon at least 2 hours before or after iron supplements.
Tetracycline antibiotics
Gaviscon may reduce the absorption of tetracyclines. Take Gaviscon at least 2 hours before or after tetracycline antibiotics.
Fluoroquinolone antibiotics
May reduce absorption. Take Gaviscon at least 2 hours before or after fluoroquinolones.
Thyroid hormones (e.g., levothyroxine)
May reduce absorption. Administer with an adequate time interval.
Storage
Store below 30°C. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose is generally associated with mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as bloating or abdominal pain. No serious adverse effects are typically expected.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation, but consult a doctor or pharmacist before use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2 years from the date of manufacture.
Availability
Pharmacies, supermarkets
Approval Status
Approved
Patent Status
Expired
Clinical Trials
Numerous clinical trials have been conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Gaviscon in the treatment of Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and dyspepsia.
Lab Monitoring
- Routine lab monitoring is not typically required for Gaviscon usage.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to take Gaviscon at least 2 hours before or after other medications to avoid potential interactions.
- Exercise caution in patients with severe renal dysfunction or heart failure due to the sodium content.
Patient Guidelines
- Shake the bottle well before each use.
- Do not exceed the stated dose.
- Consult your doctor if symptoms do not improve after 7 days or worsen.
- Maintain at least a 2-hour interval between Gaviscon and other medications.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take the next dose as usual. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a forgotten dose.
Driving Precautions
Gaviscon does not affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid foods that trigger reflux (e.g., fatty, spicy, acidic foods).
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
- Avoid eating 2-3 hours before bedtime.
- Elevate your head during sleep.
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