Indications
Alka-Seltzer is an over-the-counter medication indicated as a remedy for heartburn, acid indigestion, and other stomach-related discomfort. The active ingredients work quickly to neutralize stomach acid, reduce inflammation, and provide relief from discomfort. It is used to treat cold and flu symptoms, headaches, and hangovers. It is used to treat upset stomach and indigestion that causes headaches or body aches.
Alka-Seltzer is a combination medication containing citric acid, aspirin, and sodium bicarbonate. Alka-Seltzer comes in the form of tablet and each dissolvable tablet contains 1,000 mg of citric acid, 1,916 mg of sodium bicarbonate and 325 mg of aspirin. Citric acid and sodium bicarbonate are antacids that work to relieve indigestion and upset stomach by neutralizing the acid in your stomach. Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that relieves swelling and pain by blocking proteins in your body that cause inflammation. By combining these three drugs, Alka-Seltzer used to relieve indigestion, heartburn, and upset stomachs.
Uses and Dosage
Alka-Seltzer is available in a tablet form that should be taken orally according to the instructions on the label. The medication should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. If your condition persists or worsens, you should inform your doctor. Do not take the medication for more than 2 weeks at the maximum recommended dose unless specifically directed to do so by your doctor. If you suspect that you have a serious medical condition, you should seek immediate medical attention.
The recommended dosage of Alka-Seltzer can vary depending on the specific product and the individual's age and medical condition.
- People aged 12 to 59 years: Dissolve 2 tablets in a half cup of water and drink the mixture. Repeat every 4 hours or as directed by a provider. The maximum dose is 8 tablets in 24 hours.
- People 60 years of age or older: Dissolve 2 tablets in a half cup of water and drink the mixture. Repeat every 4 hours or as directed by a provider. The maximum dose is 4 tablets in 24 hours.
- Children under 12 years of age: Talk with your child's provider.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Alka-Seltzer:
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Passing out
- Seizures
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
Serious Side Effects of Alka-Seltzer:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Black, red, or tarry stools
- Bleeding gums
- Blood in your urine
- Change in the amount of urine
- Changes in personality or behavior,
- Clay-colored stools
- Dark urine
- Difficulty breathing
- Feeling agitated
- Feeling confusion
- Hearing loss
- Hives
- Indigestion
- Little or no urine
- Red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin with or without a fever
- Ringing in your ears
- Seizures
- Severe abdominal pain
- Severe dizziness and headache
- Stomach pain
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Tiredness
- Trouble swallowing or talking
- Unusual bruising
- Unusual hoarseness
- Vomiting or coughing up blood
- Weight gain
- Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)
Form and Strength
Alka-Seltzer is available in the following forms and strength:
Alka-Seltzer: Tablet
- 325/1916/1000mg
Caution
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have an allergy to calcium carbonate or any other allergies before taking this medication. Some calcium carbonate products may contain inactive ingredients like milk or dairy that can cause allergic reactions or other complications. Therefore, it is recommended to consult your pharmacist for more detailed information before using this product.
- Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Alka-Seltzer if you have high calcium levels (hypercalcemia), a stomach/intestinal blockage, or kidney disease (including kidney stones).
- If you have any of the health problems listed, such as asthma, bleeding problems, nose polyps, or nose irritation, you should consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before using Alka-Seltzer.
- Consult with a doctor or pharmacist before using Alka-Seltzer if you have certain health problems, such as high calcium levels, stomach problems, asthma, or bleeding problems.
- Tell your doctor or healthcare provider that you are taking Alka-Seltzer, including your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
- Avoid taking Alka-Seltzer during the third trimester of pregnancy and consult with your doctor or healthcare provider to determine if/when it is safe to use Alka-Seltzer during pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When should you not take Alka-Seltzer?
Do not take this medication if you have:
- High blood pressure
- Significant uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Severe disease of the arteries of the heart
Who should not use Alka-Seltzer?
Do not give Alka-Seltzer (aspirin, citric acid, and sodium bicarbonate) to a child younger than 12 years old without first checking with the doctor. If you are over the age of 60, use Alka-Seltzer (aspirin, citric acid, and sodium bicarbonate) with care. You could have more side effects.
How long can I take Alka-Seltzer?
You should only take Alka-Seltzer for a short amount of time to relieve your stomach symptoms and pain. In general, Alka-Seltzer should not be taken for more than 10 days.
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