What it is used for
- Relieving heartburn and acid indigestion
- Relieving the symptoms of acid reflux
- Relieving stomach discomfort linked to excess acid, such as ulcer symptoms, as an add-on treatment
How it is used
- Shake the suspension well and measure it with the spoon or cup supplied; follow the leaflet and ask your pharmacist
- Chewable tablets are chewed well before swallowing
- It is usually taken after meals and at bedtime, or when symptoms occur, as the leaflet directs
Possible side effects
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea with products that also contain magnesium
- Long-term heavy use can lower phosphate in the body, causing weakness and bone problems
Who should not use it
- Do not use it if you are allergic to any ingredient in the product
- Low blood phosphate
- Severe kidney disease, unless your doctor advises it
Before and while using it
- Do not use it regularly for long periods without seeing a doctor; symptoms that keep coming back need checking
- Get medical help straight away if you vomit blood, have black stools, have difficulty swallowing or lose weight without trying
- With kidney disease, aluminium can build up in the body; ask your doctor first
- Ask a doctor or pharmacist before giving it to children
- Some products contain sugar or sodium; ask your pharmacist if you have diabetes or are on a low-salt diet
Medicine interactions
- It reduces the absorption of many medicines, such as tetracyclines, ciprofloxacin, iron, levothyroxine and digoxin; take them apart as your pharmacist advises
- Do not take it with products containing citrate, such as some effervescent tablets, as they increase aluminium absorption
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Occasional use is usually fine in pregnancy and breastfeeding; avoid large amounts or long-term use and ask your doctor or pharmacist
How to store it
- Store at room temperature away from heat and moisture, out of the sight and reach of children.
Get medical help straight away if
- Your face, lips or tongue swell, or you find it hard to breathe.
- You get a severe rash, blistering or peeling skin.
- A side effect worries you or doesn’t go away: contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Questions about this medicine?
Talk to a doctor by video, or send your question by text.
Source: Standard international medicine references
This guide is general information and doesn’t replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t start, stop or change a medicine without asking them, and always read the leaflet in the pack.