Is Gaviscon safe during pregnancy?

Understanding Gaviscon and Its Safety During Pregnancy
As pregnancy progresses, many women experience discomfort from heartburn and acid reflux due to hormonal changes and the physical pressure of the growing uterus on the stomach. Gaviscon, a popular over-the-counter antacid, is often considered for relief. But is it safe to use during pregnancy?
What is Gaviscon?
Gaviscon is an antacid that works by neutralizing stomach acid and forming a protective barrier in the stomach. Its active ingredients, such as sodium alginate, create a gel-like substance that helps prevent acid from refluxing into the esophagus, thereby alleviating symptoms of heartburn and indigestion.
Safety Profile During Pregnancy
Research and medical guidance indicate that Gaviscon is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. It is often recommended by healthcare providers as a first-line treatment for heartburn and acid reflux in pregnant women due to its non-systemic effects, meaning it primarily acts locally in the stomach without significant absorption into the bloodstream.
However, it is crucial for pregnant women to consult with their healthcare provider before starting any new medication, including Gaviscon. This is particularly important for those with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications, as individual health circumstances can vary significantly.
Natural Ingredients and Non-Toxicity
Gaviscon contains alginic acid, which is derived from brown seaweed. This ingredient is 100% natural and non-toxic, making it a safer option for pregnant women compared to some other medications. The formulation is designed to provide relief without posing significant risks to the developing fetus.
Recommendations for Use
While Gaviscon is deemed safe, healthcare professionals typically advise that it should be used as directed and not excessively. Many women find themselves relying on it frequently during pregnancy, especially in the later stages when heartburn can become more pronounced. Nonetheless, moderation is key, and any persistent symptoms should be discussed with a doctor.
Conclusion
In summary, Gaviscon is a widely accepted and safe option for managing heartburn during pregnancy. Its natural ingredients and local action make it a preferable choice for many expectant mothers. However, as with any medication, it is always best to seek personalized advice from a healthcare provider to ensure safety and efficacy tailored to individual health needs.

Which Gaviscon is safe in pregnancy?

Gaviscon Advance is suitable for you if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It starts working in minutes and provides long-lasting relief (up to 4 hours). It’s lower in sodium than our other formulations and it has an extra-strength formula designed to help you get on with your day.

What is the safest antacid to take while pregnant?

Safe Over-the-Counter Medications

• Tums.
• Rolaids.
• Mylanta.
• Tagamet, Pepcid, Prilosec, Prevacid (If no relief from Tums or Rolaids)

What can a pregnant woman take for heartburn?

For heartburn relief, over-the-counter antacids (such as Tums, Mylanta, Rolaids, and Maalox) are all considered safe medications to use during pregnancy. As always, consult with your provider about any medications you’re taking – even if they’re considered safe. (This is especially true for high-risk pregnancies.)

Can you get Gaviscon free when pregnant?

(Gaviscon acts as a mild laxative). Your GP can prescribe Gaviscon for you in 500 ml bottles which you will be able to get for free if you have applied for your Maternity exemption certificate.

What drink is good for heartburn when pregnant?

How Can I Treat Heartburn During Pregnancy?

• Eat some yogurt or drink a glass of milk.
• Mix a bit of honey into a glass of warm milk or ginger tea.
• Sleep with your head elevated to help control flare-ups during the night.
• Try an over-the-counter antacid…but ONLY after consulting with your provider.

Is Gaviscon safer than omeprazole?

Tolerance and safety were good and comparable in both groups. Conclusion Gaviscon® was non-inferior to omeprazole in achieving a 24-h heartburn-free period in moderate episodic heartburn, and is a relevant effective alternative treatment in moderate GERD in primary care.

Who should avoid Gaviscon?

To make sure this medicine is safe for you, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have: ever had an allergic reaction to Gaviscon or any other medicines. been advised to eat a low calcium or low salt (low sodium) diet. kidney or heart disease.

How to stop acid reflux in pregnancy?

What other strategies can help reduce GERD during pregnancy?

1. Don’t smoke or drink alcohol.
2. Eat smaller meals and avoid eating late at night.
3. Limit fatty, spicy and acidic foods.
4. Avoid caffeinated and carbonated drinks.

What is the least harmful acid reflux medicine?

Antacids are among the safest drugs for acid reflux and side effects are rare. Depending on the antacid’s ingredients, side effects may include diarrhea, constipation, calcium loss and kidney stones.

What is better, Tums or Gaviscon?

The major findings of the study were that Gaviscon was associated with significantly less distal esophageal acid exposure than antacid and that this was related to a greater pH of the refluxate rather than to a decrease in the number of reflux events recorded in each study condition.