Gaviscon Syrup Uses

Gaviscon syrup is a medication used to provide relief from symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acid indigestion, and heartburn. The following are some common and off-label uses of Gaviscon Syrup:

Common Uses of Gaviscon Syrup

1. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Gaviscon syrup is commonly used to manage GERD, a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to heartburn, regurgitation, and irritation. Gaviscon creates a protective foam barrier on top of the stomach contents, preventing the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus and reducing the associated symptoms.
2. Heartburn and Acid Indigestion: Gaviscon syrup provides relief from occasional heartburn and acid indigestion by neutralizing stomach acid and alleviating the burning sensation.
3. Peptic Ulcer: Gaviscon syrup can be used to soothe and protect peptic ulcers, which are open sores that develop on the lining of the stomach or the upper part of the small intestine. The protective foam barrier helps to shield the ulcer from stomach acid, promoting healing and reducing pain.
4. Hiatal Hernia: Gaviscon syrup may be used to alleviate symptoms associated with hiatal hernia, a condition where part of the stomach protrudes into the chest through the diaphragm. The protective barrier formed by Gaviscon helps to prevent the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, providing relief from symptoms like heartburn.
5. Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR): LPR is a type of reflux where stomach acid reaches the throat and voice box, causing symptoms such as hoarseness, chronic cough, and throat irritation. Gaviscon syrup can be used to help reduce the reflux of acid into the throat, providing relief from these symptoms.

Off-label Uses of Gaviscon Syrup

1. Postprandial Discomfort: Some individuals experience discomfort or bloating after meals, which may be due to excessive stomach acid or other digestive issues. Gaviscon syrup might be used off-label to provide relief from postprandial discomfort.
2. Gastroparesis: Gastroparesis is a condition characterized by delayed stomach emptying. In some cases, Gaviscon syrup may be used off-label to help manage the symptoms associated with gastroparesis, such as reflux and discomfort.
3. Acid-related Cough: In certain situations, chronic cough may be caused by acid reflux from the stomach irritating the throat. Gaviscon syrup might be prescribed off-label to help reduce acid reflux and alleviate cough symptoms.

Gaviscon Syrup is one of the leading brands of Alginate Compound, manufactured and marketed by Reckitt Benckiser Pakistan Ltd.

The following are some alternative brands of Gaviscon Syrup and their manufacturers.

Lagita Advance : Sami Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Other Antacid Brands:

The following are similar compositions but can be used as an alternative to Gaviscon.

Dijex MP : Abbott Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Trisil Plus : Efroze Chemical Industries (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Rejex MP : Rasco Pharma (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Colenticon : Pacific Pharmaceuticals Ltd, Pakistan.

Dimeco : Macter International (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Mylanta-2 Pfizer Laboratories Inc.

Filmacid-M : Searle Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.

Balanta : Global Pharmaceuticals, Pakistan.

Almagel : Zafa Pharmaceutical Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Siam : Efroze Chemical Industries (Pvt) Ltd, Pakistan.

Presently, Gaviscon is available in Syrup and Tablet forms.

Gaviscon Syrup Each 5ml Contains:

• Calcium Carbonate: 160mg
• Sodium Alginate: 500mg
• Sodium Bicarbonate: 267mg

Each Gaviscon Tablet Contains:

• Aluminum Hydroxide and Oxide: 100mg
• Magnesium Trisilicate: 25mg
• Sodium Alginate: 500mg
• Sodium Bicarbonate: 170mg

Gaviscon syrup is generally considered safe and well-tolerated for most individuals when used as directed. However, there are certain contraindications, or specific situations or conditions, in which the use of Gaviscon syrup may not be recommended.

1. Hypersensitivity: Gaviscon syrup is contraindicated in individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergic reaction to any of its active or inactive ingredients. Allergic reactions to Gaviscon may manifest as skin rashes, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
2. Severe Kidney Disease: Gaviscon contains aluminum compounds as an inactive ingredient. In individuals with severe kidney disease or renal impairment, the use of aluminum-containing antacids like Gaviscon may lead to aluminum accumulation, which can be harmful to the kidneys.
3. Hypophosphatemia: Gaviscon syrup may lead to decreased absorption of phosphates in the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, it is generally contraindicated in individuals with hypophosphatemia, a condition characterized by low levels of phosphates in the blood.
4. Concomitant Use with Other Medications: Gaviscon may interact with certain medications and reduce their absorption. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional before using Gaviscon syrup if you are taking other medications, especially tetracyclines, iron supplements, or some antifungal medications.
5. Phenylketonuria (PKU): Some formulations of Gaviscon syrup may contain aspartame, a source of phenylalanine. Individuals with PKU, a genetic disorder that affects the metabolism of phenylalanine, should avoid products containing aspartame.
6. Intestinal Obstruction: Gaviscon syrup is not suitable for individuals with intestinal obstruction, as it may delay the passage of the obstruction and worsen the condition.

Gaviscon Syrup Dose for Adults:

• 10 to 20 ml (approximately 2 to 4 teaspoons) taken orally, after meals, and at bedtime, or as needed for relief of symptoms.
• However, the exact dosage and frequency may vary depending on the severity of symptoms and individual response.

Gaviscon Syrup Dose for Children:

• The dosage for children will depend on their age and weight.
• 5-10 ml (approximately 1 to 2 teaspoons) after meals and at bedtime.
• For Children under 6 years, it is not recommended.

Gaviscon Syrup Dose for Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women:

• 10-20 ml (approximately 2 to 4 teaspoons) after meals and at bedtime (same as adult’s dose).

Gaviscon, such as sodium alginate, has a unique mode of action when used in medications like Gaviscon. Here’s an overview of how Gaviscon work:

• Formation of a Protective Barrier: Gaviscon has the ability to form a thick gel-like layer when they come into contact with stomach acid. This gel layer floats on top of the stomach contents, acting as a physical barrier between the stomach acid and the lining of the esophagus and upper gastrointestinal tract.
• Prevention of Acid Reflux: The gel barrier created by Gaviscon helps to prevent the reflux of stomach acid back into the esophagus. It forms a raft-like structure that covers the stomach contents and reduces the likelihood of acid traveling upward, thus alleviating symptoms like heartburn and acid reflux.
• Neutralization of Acid: In addition to forming a protective barrier, some Gaviscon, such as sodium bicarbonate (which is often included in Gaviscon formulations), have antacid properties. Sodium bicarbonate helps neutralize stomach acid, further reducing acidity and providing additional relief.