Indications
Tums Extra Strength Mint is an antacid chewable tablet that is used for providing relief from heartburn and other symptoms of acid indigestion. It can be intended for temporary relief of minor symptoms and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Tums contains various ingredients including corn starch, mineral oil, natural peppermint flavor, sodium hexametaphosphate, sucrose, and talc. The active ingredient in Tums Extra Strength Mint is calcium carbonate, which works by neutralizing stomach acid.
Use and Dosage
Tums Extra Strength Mint comes in the form of Assorted Fruit Flavored Tablet to take it by mouth usually taken after meals and at bedtime, or as directed by your care team. Take one to two tablets as symptoms occur, or as directed by a doctor. Chew the tablets completely before swallowing. Drink a glass of water after taking the tablet.
Tums Extra Strength Mint contains 750 mg of calcium carbonate per tablet. The recommended dosing for adults and adolescents ages 12 years and above is to chew 1-2 tablets as needed to relieve symptoms, and not to exceed seven tablets in a 24-hour period unless directed by a doctor. Do not take the maximum dose of the medication for more than 2 weeks unless directed by your doctor.
If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Tums Extra Strength Mint (Calcium Carbonate – non-Rx):
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Stomach cramps or discomfort
- Loss of appetite
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue or weakness
- Excessive gas or belching
Serious Side Effects of Tums Extra Strength Mint (Calcium Carbonate – non-Rx):
- Allergic reactions, including hives, rash, itching, and swelling
- Bone pain
- Confusion
- Elevated levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia)
- Increased thirst or urination
- Kidney stones (especially with long-term use of high doses)
- Lack of energy, or feeling tired
- Little or no urinating
- Muscle weakness
- Swelling, rapid weight gain
Forms and Strength
Tums Extra Strength Mint (Calcium Carbonate – non-Rx) is available in the following forms and strength:
Tums Extra Strength Mint: Assorted Fruit Flavored Tablet
- 750mg
Cautions
- Calcium Carbonate can interact with certain prescription drugs. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if you are currently taking a prescription drug. Do not take more than the recommended dosage on the label, as excessive use can lead to elevated levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia).
- If you have a history of kidney stones or kidney disease, you should consult with a doctor before using it, as elevated levels of calcium can lead to the formation of kidney stones.
- If you experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, or unusual weight loss while taking it, you should contact a doctor.
- Calcium Carbonate can have some side effects, such as allergic reactions, stomach upset, and constipation. Read the label and follow the instructions carefully, as well as contact a doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
- Tums should not be used as a long-term treatment for acid indigestion, heartburn, or sour stomach symptoms without consulting a doctor. If symptoms persist, worsen, or recur after 2 weeks of use, a doctor should be consulted as it could be a sign of a more serious condition.
- Individuals with a history of hypercalcemia (elevated levels of calcium in the blood) or kidney disease should consult a doctor before taking the tablet.
- Tums is not suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions such as sarcoidosis, kidney stones, and stomach blockage.
- Tums Extra Strength Mint (Calcium Carbonate) should be taken with a full glass of water and should not be chewed. It is also recommended to wait at least 2 hours before taking any other medications to avoid drug interactions.
- Tums should be kept out of reach of children and pets, as an overdose can be harmful. In case of overdose, contact a doctor or poison control center immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for Tums to work?
Tums typically starts working within a few minutes of consumption.
Can Tums be used to treat GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)?
Tums can help relieve the symptoms of GERD, but it is not a long-term treatment option for the condition.
How should Tums Extra Strength Mint be stored?
Tums should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Is it safe to take Tums every day?
Tums can be taken every day for short-term relief of heartburn and acid indigestion symptoms, but do not exceed the recommended dosage on the label.
Is Tums gluten-free?
Tums Extra Strength Mint is gluten-free.
Resources
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/lookup.cfm?setid=11078d7c-373b-4c7b-b33b-f1deba613fc1&version=1
- https://www.everydayhealth.com/drugs/tums-chewy-bites-ultra-strength
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/calcium-carbonate.html
- https://www.tums.com/faqs/
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9574/tums-oral/details
- https://reference.medscape.com/drug/tums-calcium-carbonate-341983
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20402-calcium-carbonate-chewable-tablets
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