Gaviscon Original Aniseed Relief Liquid 300ml

Description

Gaviscon Original Aniseed Relief is a sodium alginate oral suspension that forms a protective raft on top of the stomach contents to relieve heartburn, acid regurgitation and indigestion, including heartburn of 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 267mg, calcium carbonate 160mg
Format	Oral suspension (liquid), aniseed flavour, 300ml bottle
Use	Heartburn, acid regurgitation and indigestion due to gastric reflux, including heartburn of pregnancy
How it works	Forms a raft of alginate gel that floats on the stomach contents and helps stop acid rising; lasts around 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
Sodium	142.6mg per 10ml; ask a doctor if you are on a low-sodium diet
Pack	300ml

Who it is for

Adults and children aged 12 and over with heartburn, acid reflux or indigestion.
Pregnant women with heartburn: this formula can be taken during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
People who prefer a liquid that works physically (a raft) rather than a tablet.

Not suitable for: Anyone allergic to the active ingredients or to the parabens preservatives methyl and propyl parahydroxybenzoate (E218, E216). Children under 12 unless a doctor advises it. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you are on a low-sodium diet, have heart failure, kidney or liver disease, raised calcium levels, or a history of kidney stones: it is high in sodium and contains calcium carbonate.

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 four doses in 24 hours. Children under 12: only on medical advice.
Leave 2 hours between Gaviscon and any other medicines.
If symptoms persist after 7 days, consult your doctor.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Gaviscon Original and Gaviscon Double Action?

Original relies mainly on the sodium alginate raft that sits on top of the stomach contents. Double Action adds a larger antacid dose to neutralise excess acid as well. Both are taken after meals and at bedtime.

Can I take it while pregnant?

Yes. Heartburn of pregnancy is one of its licensed uses and it can also be taken while breastfeeding. Check the sodium content with your midwife if you have been told to limit salt.

How long does it last?

The raft stays in place for around 4 hours, which is why it is taken after meals and at bedtime.

Can children use it?

From 12 years at the adult dose. Under 12 only on medical advice.

Can I take it with other medicines?

Leave 2 hours between Gaviscon and other medicines, particularly antibiotics, iron, thyroid hormones and digoxin, as it can reduce their absorption.

How should I store it?

Do not store above 30°C. Do not refrigerate or freeze.

Safety and storage

High in sodium (142.6mg per 10ml). Ask a doctor before use if you are on a low-sodium diet or have heart or kidney disease.
Do not store above 30°C. Do not refrigerate or freeze.
Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
Read the PIL. Report suspected side effects through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.