Alginates/Sodium Alginate

Brand Name:Gaviscon

Prescription needed: No

What is this drug used for?

Sodium alginate is used to treat mild heartburn due to gastro-esopageal reflux disease (acid reflux). It works by forming a barrier to prevent the acid in your stomach from coming up into the esophagus and the back of your throat.

Is there any reason not to take this drug?

You should not take this drug if you are allergic to it. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor specifically if you have or have ever had:

been given instructions to go on a low-salt diet.

  • high levels of sodium in your blood.
  • problems with an inflammation of your esophagus (esophagitis)

What about possible side effects?

The most common side effect to this medication is:

  • bloating (distended stomach)

These side effects may be less with lower doses and may decrease with time.

Other side effects are rare, but you could experience:

  • nausea

This is not a complete list of side effects. If you are concerned about these or other unusual symptoms while taking this medication, ask your doctor and/or pharmacist for more information and advice.

What if I am taking other drugs?

When used by itself, this medication has very few drug interactions. However, if used in combination with other antacids, it may interfere with how other medications can get into the body and work. If you are taking sodium alginate in combination with other antacids and you take other medications, talk to your pharmacist about the best time to take the different medications since you will have to separate the sodium alginate from other medications by 1-6 hours. Tell your doctor specifically if you are taking any of these drugs as he/she may need to make changes or monitor you more closely:
  • tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, gatifloxican, sparfloxacin, levofloxacin
  • digoxin
  • iron
  • alendronate, etidronate, risedronate
  • levothyroxine

Other information:

Children: Safe in reduced dosage. Usually given in liquid form.

Seniors: Can be used safely.

Pregnancy: No evidence of risk to fetus. Certain products can be safely used for heartburn in pregnancy. Talk to your doctor.

Women who are nursing: No known risks. Talk to your doctor.

People who drive or operate machinery: No known problems.

Overdose: Overdose will likely produce bloating of the stomach. If severe, call your doctor. If you experience any unusual reactions or if you seriously exceed the recommended dosage, call your doctor or 911.

Stopping the drug: You may safely stop using this drug when you no longer require it.

If you miss a dose: Take this drug when you need it. If you are unsure of what to do, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Storage conditions: Closed container; cool, dry location away from excess moisture (not in the bathroom); direct light, always out of reach of children.

Alcohol: No known problems. If you drink, always drink in moderation.

Dietary Precautions: None; if you are on a low-salt diet, you should talk with your doctor or pharmacist on the safe amount of sodium alginate that can be taken.