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Gaviscon Double Action is an aniseed-flavour oral suspension that combines an alginate raft with antacids to treat heartburn, acid regurgitation and indigestion, including after meals or during pregnancy. For adults and children aged 12 and over, sold by Ways Pharmacy (UK).
Key facts
| Active ingredients (per 10ml) | Sodium alginate 500mg, sodium bicarbonate 213mg, calcium carbonate 325mg |
|---|---|
| Format | Oral suspension (liquid), aniseed flavour, 250ml bottle |
| Use | Heartburn, acid regurgitation and indigestion related to reflux; symptoms of hyperacidity |
| How it works | Forms a protective raft on top of the stomach contents and neutralises excess acid; lasts up to 4 hours |
| Age | Adults and children 12 years and over (under 12 only on medical advice) |
| Dose | 10–20ml (two to four 5ml spoonfuls) after meals and at bedtime, up to four times a day |
| Maximum | 80ml in 24 hours |
| Pack | 250ml |
Who it is for
- Adults and children aged 12 and over with heartburn or acid indigestion, for example after a large meal.
- People who get reflux symptoms at night and want relief that lasts for several hours.
- Can be taken during pregnancy and while breastfeeding if needed.
Not suitable for: Anyone allergic to sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate or the parabens preservatives (E218, E216). Children under 12 unless a doctor advises it. Ask a pharmacist or doctor first if you are on a low-salt (low-sodium) diet, have heart failure or kidney problems, or have raised calcium levels or kidney stones: each 10ml contains sodium and calcium.
How to use
- Read the label and Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) before use.
- Shake the bottle well.
- Adults and children 12 and over: take 10–20ml (two to four 5ml spoonfuls) after meals and at bedtime, up to four times a day.
- Do not take more than 80ml in 24 hours. Children under 12: only on medical advice.
- Leave 2 hours between Gaviscon and any other medicines, as it can affect how they are absorbed.
- If symptoms have not improved after 7 days, see your doctor. Use within 6 months of opening.
Frequently asked questions
How is Double Action different from Gaviscon Original?
Both contain sodium alginate, which forms the raft. Double Action has more calcium carbonate (325mg vs 160mg per 10ml) for extra acid-neutralising action alongside the raft, and is also licensed for symptoms of hyperacidity.
How quickly does it work and how long does it last?
The raft forms soon after you swallow it and relief lasts up to 4 hours.
Can I take it when pregnant or breastfeeding?
Yes, Gaviscon Double Action can be taken during pregnancy and breastfeeding if you need it. Ask your midwife or pharmacist if you are unsure.
Can children take it?
It is for ages 12 and over. Children under 12 should only take it on a doctor's advice.
Can I take it with my other medicines?
Take other medicines at least 2 hours before or after Gaviscon. This matters for antibiotics such as tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones, iron tablets, thyroid hormones and digoxin.
How should I store it and how long does it keep?
Store below 30°C, do not refrigerate or freeze, and use within 6 months of first opening.
Safety and storage
- Contains sodium and calcium. Ask a pharmacist or doctor before use if you are on a low-salt diet or have heart or kidney disease.
- Do not store above 30°C. Do not refrigerate or freeze. Use within 6 months of opening.
- Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
- Read the PIL. Report suspected side effects through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.
This is a medicine. Always read the label and the Patient Information Leaflet before use. If symptoms persist, speak to a pharmacist or doctor.
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