Alginic acid or alginic acid ismedication to relieve symptoms gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux disease. OThis medication will generally be combined with other antacids, such as aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide.
Alginic acid is a natural polysaccharide prepared from brown seaweed. To help relieve GERD symptoms, this drug will work by forming a protective layer in the stomach and blocking stomach acid from rising into the esophagus, so that symptoms of acid reflux disease can subside.
Alginic acid trademark: -
What is Alginic Acid
| group | Prescription drugs |
| Category | Antacids |
| Benefit | Relieves symptoms of acid reflux disease gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) |
| Consumed by | Adults and children 12 years and over |
| Alginic acid for pregnant and lactating women | Category N:Not categorized. It is not known whether alginic acid can be absorbed into breast milk or not. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first. |
| Drug form | Tablets, chewable tablets and liquid |
Warning Before Consuming Alginic Acid
Alginic acid must be taken according to a doctor's prescription. The following are some things you need to pay attention to before consuming alginic acid:
- Do not take alginic acid if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
- Tell your doctor if you have or have had kidney disease, heart disease, phenylketonuria (PKU), intestinal obstruction, hemorrhoids, urinary retention, electrolyte disturbances, or alcoholism.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning a pregnancy.
- Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, including supplements, or herbal products.
- See your doctor immediately if you have an allergic reaction to a drug or an overdose after taking alginic acid.
Dosage and Rules for Use of Alginic Acid
The dose of alginic acid is determined based on the age, condition of the patient, and the body's response to the drug. In general, the following are alginate doses for relief of GERD in adults and children over 12 years of age:
- Alginic acid tablets or chewable tabletsThe dose is 1-3 tablets, 3-4 times a day for a maximum of 14 days.
- Liquid alginic acid
The dose is 10–20 ml, 3-4 times a day.
Alginic acid can also be combined with other antacids, H2 antagonist drugs, or proton pump inhibitors.
How to Consume Alginic Acid Correctly
Consumption of alginic acid as recommended by the doctor and don't forget to read the information on the drug packaging. Do not increase or decrease the dose, and do not use the drug more than the recommended timeframe.
Consumption of alginic acid regularly at the same time every day. Alginic acid should be taken 1 hour after meals or before bedtime. Swallow the medicine with the help of a glass of water.
If you are taking alginic acid in liquid form, be sure to shake it well before consuming it.
If you forget to take alginic acid, take it immediately if the break with the next consumption schedule is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose.
Take control and follow the doctor's advice while undergoing treatment with alginic acid. Do not stop treatment without consulting your doctor first.
Store alginic acid in a dry, closed place, and avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.
Interaction of Alginic Acid with Other Drugs
The use of alginic acid with certain drugs can cause drug interactions, such as a decrease in the effectiveness of levothyroxine, dolutegravir, digoxin, eltrombopag, or antibiotics class drugs, such as tetracycline, or quinolones.
Alginic acid is often found in combination products with antacids, such as aluminum hydroxide or magnesium hydroxide. To prevent drug interactions, talk to your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products, including aspirin, calcium supplements, bisphosphonates, or dolutegravir.
Side Effects and Dangers of Alginic Acid
Alginic acid rarely causes side effects if used in accordance with the instructions for use listed on the drug packaging. However, alginic acid is often found in combination with antacids.
Some of the side effects that can arise from the use of this combination product are nausea, constipation, diarrhea, or headaches.
Check with a doctor if this complaint does not subside or even gets worse. Call your doctor right away if you experience an allergic reaction to any medication after taking alginic acid or products containing this drug.