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What is Gaviscon Double Action Liquid? 

 

Gaviscon Double Action Liquid is a combined treatment for both indigestion and heartburn. This medicine provides relief for up to four hours, helping to reduce discomfort and ease symptoms such as wind and bloating. If you’re dealing with indigestion and acid reflux and need effective relief after meals or before bed, Gaviscon Double Action Liquid may help. It is available in original aniseed and peppermint flavours. 

 

What is indigestion? 

 

Indigestion is a common condition that most people experience at some stage, though it is usually harmless. It often occurs after eating or drinking and causes several uncomfortable symptoms, including bloating, wind, heartburn, and nausea. There are many possible causes of indigestion, with some of the most frequent being: 

  • Spicy or fatty foods, e.g. chocolate 
     

  • Consumption of alcohol, coffee, tea, or caffeinated beverages 
     

  • Being overweight 
     

  • Stress or anxiety 
     

  • Certain medications 
     

  • Smoking 
     

  • Pregnancy 
     

 

What are heartburn and acid reflux? 

 

Acid reflux occurs when excess stomach acid rises from the stomach into the oesophagus (food pipe), leading to a range of unpleasant symptoms. Heartburn is one of the most common symptoms, producing a burning feeling in the chest as a result of irritation from the stomach acid. Other symptoms you may experience with acid reflux include: 

  • Cough 
     

  • Hiccoughs 
     

  • Sore throat 
     

  • Hoarse voice 
     

  • Unpleasant taste in the mouth 
     

  • Bad breath 
     

  • Bloating or nausea 
     

 

How will Gaviscon Double Action Liquid treat my acid reflux and indigestion? 

 

 

Gaviscon Double Action Liquid contains three active ingredients that work together to relieve both acid reflux and indigestion. Calcium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate act as antacids, neutralising excess stomach acid and converting it into harmless substances like water, which soothes irritation in the stomach lining. Sodium alginate forms a protective barrier over the stomach contents, preventing acid from rising and causing further discomfort. 

 

 

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

 

If you are taking any other medicines, including those bought without a prescription, it is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Gaviscon. If you are taking oral medicines such as tablets, capsules, or liquid medication, wait at least 2 hours after taking them before using Gaviscon. Be sure to seek advice if you are taking: 

  • Antihistamines (for hay fever and allergies) 
     

  • Antibiotics including tetracyclines and quinolones, e.g. norfloxacin 
     

  • Iron supplements 
     

  • Thyroid hormones, including thyroxine 
     

  • Antifungal medicines, e.g. ketoconazole 
     

  • Digoxin or beta-blockers (for heart conditions) 
     

  • Neuroleptics (for mental health conditions) 
     

  • Chloroquine (used for malaria) 
     

  • Bisphosphonates (for osteoporosis) 
     

  • Estramustine (used for prostate cancer) 
     

 

Can I use this product if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding? 

 

Gaviscon Double Action Liquid may be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. However, it is recommended that you speak with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine at this time to ensure it is suitable for you. 

 

 

How much Gaviscon should I take? 

 

Shake the bottle well before use. Take 10-20 ml of Gaviscon Double Action Liquid (equivalent to two to four 5ml spoonfuls) after meals and before going to bed. Do not take this product more than four times a day or exceed 80ml within 24 hours. 

 

 

When should this product not be used? 

 

Gaviscon Double Action should not be administered to children under 12 years old unless specifically advised by a doctor or pharmacist. Do not take this product if you are allergic to any of the ingredients, including sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, or calcium carbonate. This medicine contains small amounts of sodium and calcium; consult your doctor before use if you are following a low sodium or low calcium diet. 

 

 

Does Gaviscon Double Action Liquid have any side effects? 

 

As with all medicines, Gaviscon Double Action Liquid may cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. In rare cases, you may experience an allergic reaction. Stop using the product immediately and seek urgent medical attention if you notice: 

  • Skin rash 
     

  • Itching 
     

  • Dizziness 
     

  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat 
     

  • Difficulty breathing 
     

 

Other potential side effects include: 

 

  • Constipation 
     

  • Irritability 
     

  • Muscle twitching or cramps 
     

  • Recurrence of indigestion when stopping the medication 
     

  • High levels of calcium in the blood 
     

 

If you notice any of these or any other unusual effects while using this product, discontinue use and speak to your doctor or pharmacist. For more information about reporting side effects, please refer to the MHRA’s Yellow Card Scheme. 

 

 

How to store this product 

 

Store in a cool, dry location below 30°C. Do not use if the expiry date on the original packaging has passed. Once opened, use within 6 months. Keep out of the sight and reach of children. 

 

Important information 

 

This product is a medicine; always consult your doctor or Happy Pharmacy pharmacist before using it if you have an underlying health condition or are taking other medicines or complementary treatments. If your symptoms worsen or persist after using this product, contact us or your doctor. For local medical services, visit https://www.nhs.uk. 

If you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding, speak with your doctor or our pharmacist before using this medicine. If you have known allergies, confirm with your doctor or pharmacist whether this product is appropriate for you. 

Always store medicines out of sight and reach of children. 

Be sure to read the enclosed leaflet thoroughly before using this medicine.

Patient Information Leaflet

 If appropriate, please consult your GP regarding this product. 

 

Helpful Advice on Medication Restrictions & Addiction 
 

If you are worried about dependence on over-the-counter medicines, we strongly encourage you to seek guidance from the following resources: