calcium carbonate + sodium alginate + sodium hydrogen carbonate at a glance
Medicine class
Alginate reflux suppressant combined with antacids
Usual role
Relief of heartburn, acid regurgitation and indigestion caused by reflux
Available forms
Selected products include oral suspensions, liquid sachets and chewable tablets
Administration
Chew tablets thoroughly; measure bottled liquids with the supplied device, not a kitchen spoon
What is calcium carbonate + sodium alginate + sodium hydrogen carbonate used for?
Selected products are licensed for symptoms caused by gastro-oesophageal reflux.
Heartburn, including during pregnancy
Acid regurgitation and reflux-related indigestion
Epigastric or retrosternal discomfort caused by reflux
Symptoms associated with reflux oesophagitis or hiatus hernia in selected products
Reflux symptoms during or after withdrawal of acid-suppressing therapy, and symptoms of excess stomach acid, for selected products
How does calcium carbonate + sodium alginate + sodium hydrogen carbonate work?
In stomach acid, sodium alginate forms a near-neutral gel raft that floats above the stomach contents and physically reduces reflux into the oesophagus. Calcium carbonate and sodium hydrogen carbonate neutralise acid. The main anti-reflux action does not depend on systemic absorption.
How to take calcium carbonate + sodium alginate + sodium hydrogen carbonate
Follow the instructions for the exact product because liquids, sachets and tablets are not interchangeable.
Shake bottled suspensions if directed and measure them with the supplied device.
Knead or mix a liquid sachet before opening if its leaflet instructs this.
Chew chewable tablets thoroughly rather than swallowing them whole.
Antacids can reduce absorption of other oral medicines; ask a pharmacist about suitable separation.
calcium carbonate + sodium alginate + sodium hydrogen carbonate side effects
Common or expected effects
- Most people experience no side effects
- Some formulations may cause mild nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhoea
- Wind, bloating or abdominal discomfort may occur after excessive intake
- Some chewable formulations may have a mild laxative effect
Get urgent medical advice
- Sudden facial, mouth, tongue or throat swelling
- Breathing difficulty, wheezing or bronchospasm
- Widespread raised or itchy rash with other allergic symptoms
- Collapse or severe dizziness suggesting anaphylaxis
calcium carbonate + sodium alginate + sodium hydrogen carbonate in pregnancy
These products can generally be used during pregnancy when clinically needed. Check the exact formulation with a pharmacist or prescriber, particularly if symptoms persist or there are kidney, heart, sodium-restriction or calcium-related concerns.
calcium carbonate + sodium alginate + sodium hydrogen carbonate while breastfeeding
Antacid and alginate preparations are considered acceptable during breastfeeding. Poor oral absorption limits infant exposure, and specific monitoring is not usually required for a healthy, full-term baby.
calcium carbonate + sodium alginate + sodium hydrogen carbonate interactions
The antacid ingredients can alter absorption of other oral medicines. Check suitable separation with a pharmacist, particularly for the following.
Tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics
Antacid binding can reduce antibiotic absorption.
Iron supplements
Absorption of oral iron may be reduced.
Levothyroxine and other thyroid hormones
Absorption may be reduced if taken too close together.
Bisphosphonates
Common questions about calcium carbonate + sodium alginate + sodium hydrogen carbonate
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Is sodium hydrogen carbonate the same as sodium bicarbonate?
Yes. They are names for the same active substance.
Is this combination an antacid?
Partly. Calcium carbonate and sodium hydrogen carbonate are antacids, while sodium alginate forms the physical reflux barrier.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.