What are Gaviscon Double Action Tablets?

Gaviscon Double Action Tablets are a soothing treatment for heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion. These tablets can be chewed and swallowed without needing a glass of water, so you can take them whenever and wherever you suffer from heartburn. If you’re looking for a treatment for heartburn and indigestion that works quickly and can be taken on the go, these tablets could be the perfect solution for you. These tablets are available in peppermint and mixed berry flavours.

What is heartburn?

Heartburn is a side effect of a condition called acid reflux, although lots of people think that they’re the same thing. Acid reflux happens when you have indigestion and excess stomach acid starts to travel up towards your throat. This causes the burning sensation in your chest that’s known as heartburn, as well as a cough, hiccups, bad breath, and an unpleasant taste in your mouth.

How will Gaviscon Double Action Tablets treat my heartburn and indigestion?

Gaviscon Double Action Tablets use three active ingredients to ease your heartburn and indigestion. They contain calcium carbonate and sodium hydrogen carbonate, which work as antacids. Antacids work by neutralising your excess stomach acid, easing the pain and discomfort that it can cause. The final active ingredient is sodium alginate, which forms a protective barrier over the contents of your stomach, preventing acid reflux and soothing irritation in your chest and throat.

Can I take these tablets if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

Gaviscon Double Action Tablets are safe to take when you’re pregnant or breastfeeding; however, you should speak to your doctor or a Health Nest pharmacist before taking any new medication at this time. Some medications may not be suitable for you or your baby at this time, and your doctor may wish to recommend an alternative treatment or change the dose that you should take every day.

Can I take this product if I’m taking other medications?

If you’re taking any other medication, including those obtained without a prescription, you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product. Some medications can interact when used together, causing unwanted side effects or making your medication less effective. A medical professional can help you avoid this. If your doctor or pharmacist says that you can use these tablets with your regular medication, then make sure that you do not take Gaviscon tablets within 2 hours of taking your other medication by mouth.

How to take these tablets

Take 2 to 4 Gaviscon Double Action Tablets after each meal and before going to bed. Chew the tablets well before swallowing; there’s no need to take them with water.

Do not exceed four doses in any 24-hour period, with a maximum of 16 tablets per day.

Taking more than the recommended amount may cause bloating, though this is generally not harmful. If the bloating persists or becomes uncomfortable, seek medical advice promptly.

When should Gaviscon tablets not be used?

Gaviscon Double Action Tablets should not be used by children under the age of 12 unless specifically advised to do so by a doctor. Do not use this product if you are allergic to sodium alginate, sodium hydrogen carbonate, calcium carbonate, or any of the other listed ingredients. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this product if you:

Have severe kidney problems
Have an electrolyte disturbance, causing a low level of phosphate in the blood, also known as hypophosphatemia
Suffer or have suffered from significant kidney or heart disease
Have reduced amounts of gastric acid in your stomach

Does this product have any side effects?

Like all medications, Gaviscon Double Action Tablets can have side effects, although not everyone will experience them. These include symptoms caused by an allergic reaction, such as:

Abdominal pain
Diarrhoea
Nausea
Vomiting
Skin rash
Itching
Difficulty breathing
Dizziness
Swelling of the lips, face, tongue, or throat

If you experience these or any other side effects while using this product, stop use and speak to your doctor or pharmacist immediately. For more information about reporting the side effects of medication, please see the MHRA’s Yellow Card scheme.

How to store this product

Store in a cool, dry place which is below 30 degrees C. Store in original packaging and do not use if the expiry date printed on the original packaging has passed. Keep out of sight and reach of children.

Important Information

This is a medicinal product. If you have any existing health conditions or are currently taking other medications or supplements, consult your doctor or a Health Nest pharmacist before using it. If your symptoms persist or worsen after use, seek advice from your healthcare provider or contact us. For information on local medical services, visit https://www.nhs.uk.

If you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding, please speak with your doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine. If you have known allergies, confirm with a healthcare professional whether this treatment is suitable for you.

Always store medicines in a safe place, out of sight and reach of children.

Be sure to read the enclosed leaflet thoroughly before use.

If you have any concerns or questions about this product, speak to your GP for further guidance.