Gaviscon 500mg/267mg per 10ml Suspension

Sodium alginate with sodium bicarbonate relieves the symptoms of acid reflux, such as heartburn, acid coming back up into the throat, and indigestion. These can happen after meals or during pregnancy.

• Sodium alginate reacts with stomach acid to form a thick, raft-like layer on top of the stomach contents. This helps stop acid escaping up into the food pipe.
• Sodium bicarbonate is an antacid. It neutralises some stomach acid and helps the protective layer form.

Some brands also contain calcium carbonate, another antacid.

Take it as the leaflet, your doctor or pharmacist tells you.

• It is usually taken after meals and at bedtime.
• Shake liquid bottles well before use. Chew tablets well if your product is a chewable tablet.
• If you forget a dose, just carry on as before; do not take a double dose.
• Leave at least 2 hours between this medicine and other medicines taken by mouth.
• Children under 12 should only take it on medical advice.
• See your doctor if symptoms last more than 7 days.

Side effects are uncommon. Taking too much may make you feel bloated or cause tummy discomfort.

Stop taking it and get medical help straight away if you have:

• a skin rash
• difficulty breathing or dizziness
• swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat

These can be signs of a rare allergic reaction.

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:

• are allergic to any of the ingredients
• have been told to follow a low-salt (sodium) diet, or have kidney problems
• need it every day for a long time
• take other medicines, especially antibiotics (tetracyclines or quinolones), iron, antihistamines, ketoconazole, digoxin, beta blockers, thyroid hormones, steroids, chloroquine, penicillamine or bisphosphonates

It can usually be taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Do not store above 30°C. Do not refrigerate or freeze the liquid. Keep out of the sight and reach of children.

High in sodium: this medicine contains a significant amount of sodium (salt). Talk to your doctor first if you are on a salt-restricted diet.

Other medicines: take other medicines at least 2 hours apart, as it can stop some of them working properly.

Lasting symptoms: see a doctor if heartburn or indigestion continues for more than a week.