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Alginate / Antacid Combination

Gaviscon Advance (Alginate Preparation)

Brand names: Gaviscon Advance

Gaviscon Advance is an alginate-based reflux suppressant containing sodium alginate with potassium bicarbonate, used for the symptomatic relief of gastro-oesophageal reflux, heartburn and acid regurgitation, including in pregnancy.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

Clinical monograph

How it works

On contact with gastric acid the alginate forms a viscous gel raft that floats on the stomach contents and acts as a physical barrier, reducing reflux of acid into the oesophagus.

Prescribing in practice

  • Account for its sodium and potassium content in patients on restricted sodium or potassium intake, such as those with cardiac or renal impairment.
  • Take it after meals and at bedtime, and separate administration from other medicines, as the raft may reduce their absorption.
  • If symptoms persist despite treatment, reassess for underlying disease and consider acid-suppressing therapy.

Monitoring

Routine monitoring is not required; review symptom control and consider electrolyte content in those with cardiac or renal impairment.

Counselling the patient

  • Take it after meals and before going to bed.
  • Leave a gap between this and your other medicines.
  • See your doctor if heartburn continues despite treatment.

Evidence & guidelines

Alginate reflux suppressants have established efficacy for reflux symptoms, supported by clinical trials and reflected in current prescribing references.

Reference: NICE CG62 Dyspepsia and GORD; SPC Gaviscon Advance; Confirm identity and dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC) and NICE. Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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