Gaviscon Double Action Liquid 150ml

GAVISCON DOUBLE ACTION LIQUID 150ML by RECKITT

Gaviscon Double Action Liquid is an oral suspension designed for effective relief from heartburn and indigestion. This product is manufactured by Reckitt Benckiser.

• Name:

  • Common Name: Reflux suppressant and antacid combination
  • Brand Name: Gaviscon Double Action Liquid

• Composition: Gaviscon Double Action Liquid contains a combination of active ingredients that work together to provide dual relief. Each 10 mL dose typically contains:

  • Sodium Alginate (500 mg)
  • Sodium Bicarbonate (213 mg)
  • Calcium Carbonate (325 mg) It also contains excipients such as methyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218) and propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E216), which may cause allergic reactions. The oral suspension is sugar-free and gluten-free.

• Uses: This medicine is indicated for the treatment of symptoms associated with gastro-oesophageal reflux. These symptoms include:

  • Acid regurgitation
  • Heartburn
  • Indigestion (dyspepsia)
  • Symptoms of excess stomach acid (hyperacidity). It can be used following meals or during pregnancy, and is suitable for breastfeeding mothers.

• Dosage and Administration: For oral administration, shake well before use.

  • Adults and Children 12 years and over: Take 10-20 mL (two to four 5 mL spoonfuls) after meals and at bedtime, up to four times per day.
  • Children under 12 years: Should only be given on medical advice.
  • Elderly: No dose modifications are typically necessary. If symptoms do not improve after seven days, a medical review is recommended.

• Side Effects: Common, mild side effects may include:

  • Stomach cramps
  • Flatulence
  • Constipation Very rarely, more serious side effects like hypersensitivity reactions (including anaphylaxis and urticaria) and respiratory effects (including bronchospasm) have been reported. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea have also been reported rarely.

• Precautions:

  • This product should not be used in patients with moderate or severe renal insufficiency.
  • Each 10 mL dose contains 127.25 mg (5.53 mmol) of sodium, which should be considered for individuals on a highly restricted salt diet (e.g., those with congestive cardiac failure or renal impairment).
  • Each 10 mL dose contains 130 mg (3.25 mmol) of calcium. Care is needed for patients with hypercalcaemia, nephrocalcinosis, or recurrent calcium-containing renal calculi.
  • Prolonged use should be avoided, and if symptoms persist for more than 7 days, medical advice should be sought.
  • As with other antacids, this product can mask symptoms of more serious, underlying medical conditions.
  • A time interval of at least 2 hours should be observed between taking Gaviscon Double Action Liquid and other medications, especially tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, iron salts, thyroid hormones, and bisphosphonates, as it may affect their absorption.
  • Hypersensitivity to any ingredients, including sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, or parabens (methyl and propyl parahydroxybenzoate), is a contraindication.

• Storage: Store below 25°C or 30°C in the original package. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Keep out of reach of children.

Gaviscon Double Action Liquid 150ml by Reckitt is an oral suspension used to relieve symptoms of acid reflux, heartburn, and indigestion. It works by forming a protective layer over the stomach contents and neutralizing excess stomach acid.

Here are some frequently asked questions about Gaviscon Double Action Liquid:

What is Gaviscon Double Action Liquid used for?

Gaviscon Double Action Liquid is used for the treatment of symptoms associated with gastro-oesophageal reflux, such as acid regurgitation, heartburn, and indigestion. This includes symptoms experienced after meals or during pregnancy, and symptoms of excess stomach acid (hyperacidity). It also provides relief for gastric reflux and reflux oesophagitis (inflamed food pipe).

How does Gaviscon Double Action Liquid work?

Gaviscon Double Action Liquid contains three active ingredients: sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium carbonate. Upon ingestion, the sodium alginate reacts with stomach acid to form a thick gel, often described as a "raft," that floats on top of the stomach contents. This physical barrier helps to prevent stomach acid from flowing back up into the oesophagus, thereby reducing reflux. Simultaneously, the calcium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate act as antacids, neutralizing excess stomach acid to provide quick relief from discomfort. The medicine's action is localized and does not depend on absorption into the bloodstream.

What is the usual dosage?

For adults and children 12 years and over, the recommended dose is 10-20 mL (two to four 5ml spoonfuls) after meals and at bedtime, up to four times a day. The bottle should be shaken well before use. Children under 12 years of age should only be given this medicine under medical advice.

What are the possible side effects?

Most people do not experience side effects, and if they do, they are usually mild and resolve upon stopping the medication. Infrequently reported minor side effects include stomach cramps, flatulence, constipation, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. In very rare cases, severe allergic reactions (e.g., anaphylaxis, urticaria, bronchospasm) can occur, with symptoms such as skin rash, itching, difficulty breathing, dizziness, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If any signs of a serious allergic reaction occur, discontinue use immediately and seek urgent medical attention. Very large doses might lead to bloating.

Is it safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Gaviscon Double Action Liquid can be used during pregnancy if clinically needed. Clinical studies in pregnant women have indicated no significant adverse effects on pregnancy or the health of the foetus/newborn. Similarly, it can be used during breastfeeding as no effects on breastfed newborns/infants have been observed. However, due to the presence of calcium carbonate, it is advisable to limit the duration of treatment as much as possible during pregnancy.

Can it be taken with other medications?

Gaviscon Double Action Liquid may affect the absorption of other oral medicines. It is generally recommended to allow a 2-hour interval between taking Gaviscon Double Action Liquid and other medications. This is particularly important for medications such as tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, iron salts, thyroid hormones, chloroquine, bisphosphonates, H2-antihistaminics, digoxin, ketoconazole, neuroleptics, penicillamine, beta-blockers, glucocorticoids, and estramustine. Taking Gaviscon Double Action Liquid with thiazide diuretics or vitamin D may increase blood calcium levels. It is safe to take with paracetamol, but other painkillers like ibuprofen or aspirin should not be taken with Gaviscon without consulting a doctor first.

What precautions should be taken?

Do not use Gaviscon Double Action Liquid if you are hypersensitive (allergic) to sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, or any other ingredients, including methyl and propyl parahydroxybenzoate, which can cause allergic reactions. Prolonged use should be avoided, and if symptoms do not improve after seven days, medical advice should be sought. The product contains sodium and should be used with caution by individuals on a highly restricted salt diet, such as those with congestive cardiac failure or renal impairment. Caution is also advised for patients with hypercalcaemia, nephrocalcinosis, or recurrent calcium-containing kidney stones due to its calcium content. It should not be taken with large amounts of milk or milk-products, as this may increase the risk of side effects.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you usually take Gaviscon Double Action Liquid regularly and miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, simply skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for a forgotten dose.

How should it be stored?

Gaviscon Double Action Liquid should be stored below 25°C or 30°C and must not be refrigerated or frozen. It should be kept in its original packaging and out of the reach of children. Once opened, use within 6 months.