Generic
Potassium Bicarbonate + Sodium Alginate
34 brands available in the market
At a glance
Potassium Bicarbonate + Sodium Alginate is used for the treatment of symptoms of heartburn, indigestion, gastro-oesophageal reflux, acid regurgitation, and reflux esophagitis. Sodium alginate reacts with gastric acid to form a gel that floats as a raft on top of stomach contents, preventing acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
Description
Sodium Alginate is a naturally occurring substance that reacts with gastric acid to form a gel. Potassium Bicarbonate reacts with gastric acid to form carbon dioxide bubbles which are trapped in the gel, allowing it to float as a raft on top of stomach contents. The raft prevents acid reflux into the esophagus, relieving symptoms such as heartburn. The mode of action is physical and does not depend on systemic absorption.
Indications
- Heartburn
- Indigestion
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux
- Acid regurgitation
- Reflux esophagitis
Therapeutic class
Antacids
Pharmacological class
Anti-reflux Agent
Pharmacology
Sodium Alginate reacts with gastric acid to form a gel that floats as a raft on stomach contents. Potassium Bicarbonate produces carbon dioxide bubbles that help the gel float. This raft prevents gastric acid from flowing back into the esophagus and relieves reflux symptoms. The mode of action is physical and does not depend on absorption into the systemic circulation.
Mechanism of action
Prevents acid reflux by forming a floating raft upon reaction with gastric acid.
Dosage
Adult Dose (Oral):
- Tablet: 1-2 tablets 3-4 times daily, after meals and before bedtime
- Suspension: 5-10 mL 3-4 times daily, after meals and before bedtime
Pediatric Dose:
- >12 years: Same as adult
- 6-12 years: ½-1 tablet 3-4 times daily; Suspension 2.5-5 mL 3-4 times daily
- Under 2 years: Not recommended
Administration
- Swallow tablets whole; do not chew
- Take after meals and before bedtime
- Maintain 2-hour interval with other medications
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember; skip if it's almost time for next dose; do not double the dose.
Side effects
Side Effects:
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Precautions & warnings
- Caution in renal impairment and congestive cardiac failure
- Caution in hypercalcemia, nephrocalcinosis, and recurrent calcium-containing renal calculi
- Reduced efficacy in patients with very low gastric acid levels
- Review clinical situation if no improvement after 7 days
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to sodium alginate and potassium bicarbonate
Drug interactions
- Tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, iron salts, thyroid hormones, chloroquine, bisphosphonates, estramustine: Maintain 2-hour interval between this drug and these medications
Food interactions
Take with food for better absorption; it is not known whether it is safe to consume alcohol.
Use in pregnancy
Use in Pregnancy: Can be used during pregnancy if clinically needed.
Use in lactation
Use in Lactation: No known effect on breast-fed infants; can be used during breastfeeding.
Pediatric use
Not recommended in children under 2 years.
Geriatric use
No dose modifications necessary for elderly patients.
Renal / hepatic impairment
Renal Impairment: Caution; caution if highly restricted salt diet is necessary; consult your doctor.
Hepatic Impairment: No dose modifications necessary.
Overdose effects
Overdose is rare; excessive dose may cause sensation of swelling; consult your doctor.
Storage conditions
Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture; keep out of reach of children.
Chemical structure
Potassium Bicarbonate + Sodium Alginate