Gaviscon Advance Peppermint is an off-white viscous oral suspension. Firstly, it contains two active ingredients per 10ml dose: sodium alginate 1000mg and potassium hydrogen carbonate 200mg.
Also, calcium carbonate 200mg per 10ml is present as an ingredient with a supporting role in the raft-forming reaction.
However, the suspension is described as a ‘reflux suppressant’ rather than an antacid. Firstly, this reflects the mechanism of physical reflux barrier formation rather than simple acid neutralisation.
Furthermore, the manufacturer is Reckitt Benckiser Healthcare (UK) Ltd. Gaviscon is one of the most established UK brands for heartburn and reflux relief.
The alginate raft mechanism (distinctive)
When Gaviscon Advance is swallowed, sodium alginate and potassium bicarbonate react with stomach acid. Firstly, this produces alginic acid gel with near-neutral pH.
Also, the potassium bicarbonate releases carbon dioxide bubbles that get trapped in the gel. Firstly, this makes the gel float on top of the stomach contents.
However, this floating gel (the ‘raft’) physically blocks stomach acid and stomach contents from refluxing up into the oesophagus. Firstly, this action can last up to 4 hours.
Furthermore, in cases of significant reflux, the raft itself may be refluxed into the oesophagus rather than the acid. Firstly, this protects the oesophageal lining from acid, pepsin, and bile.
Gaviscon Advance vs Gaviscon Original
Gaviscon Advance contains twice the sodium alginate of Gaviscon Original per equivalent dose. Firstly, Advance has 1000mg per 10ml versus 500mg per 10ml in Original.
Also, Advance uses potassium bicarbonate (which contains no sodium) instead of sodium bicarbonate. Firstly, this reduces the sodium load.
However, Advance still contains some sodium from the sodium alginate itself. Firstly, it is not sodium-free.
Furthermore, Advance’s stronger alginate concentration means a more robust raft. Firstly, this is why it is often preferred for more severe or frequent symptoms.
Key features and specifications
Active ingredients per 10ml: sodium alginate 1000mg + potassium hydrogen carbonate 200mg
Adult dose per intake: 5-10ml (one to two 5ml spoonfuls)
An extra-strength alginate raft-former for heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux
Gaviscon Advance Peppermint Flavour Oral Suspension is a reflux suppressant containing sodium alginate and potassium bicarbonate. Firstly, it is a general sale list (GSL) or pharmacy (P) medicine, depending on pack size, from Reckitt Benckiser Healthcare (UK).
Also, Gaviscon Advance is different from standard Gaviscon Original. Firstly, it contains twice as much sodium alginate per dose (1000mg vs 500mg per 10ml), giving a stronger and longer-lasting raft.
However, Gaviscon Advance uses potassium bicarbonate instead of sodium bicarbonate for the raft-forming reaction. Firstly, this reduces the sodium content compared to Gaviscon Original, although both products contain some sodium.
Furthermore, the mechanism is distinctive. Firstly, when swallowed, the suspension reacts with stomach acid to form a gel-like alginate raft.
Above all, the raft floats on top of the stomach contents. Firstly, this physical barrier stops stomach acid and stomach contents refluxing up into the oesophagus.
Also, the raft protects the oesophagus from acid, pepsin, and bile for up to 4 hours. Firstly, this differs from antacids (which just neutralise acid) and PPIs (which reduce acid production).
However, adults and adolescents 12 and over take 5-10ml after meals and at bedtime, up to four times daily. Firstly, use the measuring cup provided or a 5ml medicine spoon.
Furthermore, the peppermint flavour makes the suspension palatable. Firstly, an aniseed flavour is also available for those who prefer it.
Also, Gaviscon Advance is sugar-free, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly. Firstly, this makes it suitable for many patients with dietary requirements.
However, it contains parabens (methyl and propyl parahydroxybenzoates) as preservatives. Firstly, patients with paraben allergy should avoid this product.
Above all, Gaviscon Advance is often recommended by clinicians as the Gaviscon of choice during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Firstly, this reflects its lower sodium content and extra-strength action.
Furthermore, seek medical advice if symptoms persist for more than 7 days, or if you have symptoms suggesting more serious conditions.
At Courier Pharmacy, we stock Gaviscon Advance Peppermint alongside other reflux and acid options. Our pharmacy team can advise on whether it fits your specific symptoms and situation.
When to see a doctor rather than self-treat
Gaviscon Advance is for short-term self-care of heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux. However, some situations need medical assessment rather than continued over-the-counter treatment.
Symptoms lasting more than 7 days without improvement
Vomiting blood or coffee-ground vomit; passing black tarry stools or bright red blood in stools (possible GI bleeding, call 999)
Difficulty or painful swallowing, or food sticking on the way down (possible oesophageal condition needing investigation)
Unintended weight loss, persistent vomiting, or loss of appetite
New or worsening symptoms in someone over 55 (new-onset reflux needs endoscopic assessment)
Chest pain (particularly if severe, radiating to arm/jaw, or with breathlessness or sweating). Call 999 if uncertain, heart symptoms can be mistaken for heartburn
Severe abdominal pain that doesn’t settle with treatment
Iron deficiency anaemia (may indicate hidden bleeding)
Frequent or recurrent symptoms that come back soon after stopping treatment (may need PPI therapy)
Symptoms of Barrett’s oesophagus follow-up or known upper GI conditions where prescription treatment is more appropriate
If you are pregnant, generally safe to take, but discuss with your midwife if you need it regularly
If you have significant heart failure, kidney disease, or are on a low-salt diet, check with your GP or pharmacist because of the sodium content
Five key takeaways
Gaviscon Advance Peppermint Suspension is an extra-strength alginate raft-former with sodium alginate 1000mg and potassium bicarbonate 200mg per 10ml dose. Twice the alginate of standard Gaviscon Original.
Distinctive mechanism: reacts with stomach acid to form a floating raft that physically blocks reflux for up to 4 hours. Different from antacids (which neutralise acid) and PPIs (which reduce acid production).
Age 12 and over only. Dose: 5-10ml after meals and at bedtime, up to four times daily. Maximum 40ml (four doses) in 24 hours. Duration: up to 7 days without medical advice.
Sugar-free, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly. Contains parabens (E218, E216). High sodium content, cautions apply for low-salt diet, heart failure, and kidney disease.
General sale list (GSL) and pharmacy (P) medicine depending on pack size. Often recommended as the Gaviscon of choice during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Available from Courier Pharmacy.
What is Gaviscon Advance Peppermint Suspension: overview
Where Gaviscon Advance fits in acid-related self-care
Heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux are common. Firstly, several over-the-counter options exist.
Also, antacids (Rennie, Tums) neutralise stomach acid for fast but short-lived relief.
However, alginate raft-formers (Gaviscon Original, Gaviscon Advance, Peptac) form a physical barrier that reduces reflux for longer.
Furthermore, H2 antagonists (famotidine) and PPIs (omeprazole 10mg OTC as Zanprol) reduce acid production for hours to days.
Gaviscon Advance vs Gaviscon Original
Gaviscon Advance contains twice the sodium alginate of Gaviscon Original per equivalent dose. Firstly, this gives a stronger, longer-lasting raft.
However, Advance is more expensive than Original. Firstly, choice depends on symptom severity and patient preference.
Gaviscon Advance vs Gaviscon Double Action
Gaviscon Double Action combines an alginate raft-former with a stronger antacid effect (adds calcium carbonate for immediate acid neutralisation). Firstly, this gives both immediate and sustained relief.
However, Gaviscon Advance focuses on the raft-forming action. Firstly, it is preferred when the primary problem is reflux rather than excess acid.
Gaviscon Advance vs Rennie or Tums (simple antacids)
Rennie and Tums contain calcium carbonate (and magnesium in Rennie). Firstly, they neutralise stomach acid on contact.
Also, this gives fast but short-lived relief (usually 30-60 minutes).
However, Gaviscon Advance forms a physical raft that provides longer protection (up to 4 hours). Firstly, this is more effective for regurgitation and reflux symptoms.
Gaviscon Advance vs Pepto-Bismol
Pepto-Bismol contains bismuth subsalicylate. Firstly, it is used for upset stomach, indigestion, and diarrhoea.
Also, it is not primarily a reflux treatment. Firstly, Gaviscon Advance is more targeted for reflux symptoms.
Gaviscon Advance vs H2 antagonists (Pepcid AC / famotidine)
Pepcid AC contains famotidine 10mg (OTC H2 antagonist). Firstly, it reduces acid production for 8-12 hours.
Also, Gaviscon Advance works through a different mechanism (physical raft) with faster onset but shorter duration.
However, the two can be combined for complementary effect (Gaviscon Advance for immediate reflux barrier plus famotidine for acid reduction).
Gaviscon Advance vs OTC PPI (Zanprol / omeprazole)
Zanprol contains omeprazole 10mg (OTC PPI). Firstly, it reduces stomach acid production and needs 1-4 days to reach full effect.
Also, Zanprol is used for a 14-day course for frequent heartburn.
However, Gaviscon Advance works immediately and can be used as needed. Firstly, it can be combined with PPI therapy for breakthrough symptoms.
Gaviscon Advance vs prescription PPIs (rabeprazole, lansoprazole)
Prescription PPIs give stronger and longer-lasting acid suppression than OTC options. Firstly, they are used for confirmed reflux disease and ulcer healing.
Also, Gaviscon Advance is often used alongside prescription PPIs. Firstly, it provides fast relief for breakthrough reflux while PPIs reduce baseline acid production.
Gaviscon Advance vs Peptac
Peptac is a similar alginate raft-former available at generic prices. Firstly, formulations vary between brands.
Also, both work through the same raft-forming mechanism. Firstly, choice may depend on cost and patient preference.
Combined use with PPIs and H2 antagonists
Gaviscon Advance can be used alongside prescription PPIs (omeprazole, lansoprazole, rabeprazole, esomeprazole) or H2 antagonists (famotidine). Firstly, they work through different mechanisms and complement each other.
However, remember to leave at least 2 hours between Gaviscon and other oral medicines. Firstly, the alginate can reduce absorption of some drugs.
Short-term use only
Gaviscon Advance is for short-term (up to 7 days) symptom relief. Firstly, symptoms persisting beyond this need medical assessment.
Also, chronic or frequent reflux may need prescription treatment. Firstly, PPIs are often first-line for confirmed reflux disease.
Why choose Courier Pharmacy for your Gaviscon Advance Peppermint
Registered, independent, and patient-led
Courier Pharmacy is a UK-registered independent pharmacy regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council. Firstly, even for a general sale product like Gaviscon Advance, pharmacist support matters.
Also, a short conversation can help you choose the right reflux product for your specific symptoms and situation.
Dr Ada Jex-Cori, our brand pharmacist
Our brand pharmacist is Dr Ada Jex-Cori. She represents the spirit of what we do. Named for Ada Lovelace, Sophia Jex-Blake, and Gerty Cori, she stands for evidence-led, unafraid-of-questions medicine. Her message is straightforward. You’re not broken. The system is. We’re here to change that.
Care that keeps showing up
Purchases are not one-off transactions when done properly. Firstly, we are here to answer follow-up questions if the product is not working as expected.
Also, if your reflux persists beyond 7 days or worsens, contact us. We can help you think through the next step, including when a GP appointment or prescription treatment is needed.
Buy Gaviscon Advance Peppermint Flavour Oral Suspension from Courier Pharmacy
Gaviscon Advance Peppermint is a general sale (GSL) or pharmacy (P) medicine, depending on pack size. You can order at courierpharmacy.co.uk in 150ml, 200ml, 300ml, or 500ml bottles.
Add Gaviscon Advance Peppermint to your basket in your chosen bottle size
Our pharmacy team reviews the sale as part of our routine pharmacy check
Your order is dispatched promptly
Follow the pack directions carefully. Contact us if you have questions
If Gaviscon Advance is not the right product for your situation, we will explain why. Options include Gaviscon Original (simpler formula, less strong), Gaviscon Double Action (combines raft-former plus stronger antacid), Rennie Peppermint (calcium carbonate antacid for immediate relief), OTC PPI (Zanprol 10mg omeprazole for frequent heartburn), OTC H2 antagonist (Pepcid AC 10mg famotidine), or a prescription PPI (rabeprazole, lansoprazole for stronger or longer treatment).
Above all, we will not sell a product that is not right for your situation.
Summary
An extra-strength alginate raft-former for adults and adolescents 12+ with heartburn, indigestion, acid reflux, and other symptoms of GORD.
Contains sodium alginate 1000mg and potassium hydrogen carbonate 200mg per 10ml (twice the alginate of Gaviscon Original).
Distinctive mechanism: physical raft that floats on stomach contents and blocks reflux for up to 4 hours.
Different from antacids (which neutralise acid) and PPIs (which reduce acid production). Complementary to both, not competing.
Sugar-free, gluten-free, vegan-friendly. High in sodium and contains parabens. Often preferred during pregnancy.
Active ingredients in Gaviscon Advance Peppermint Suspension
Sodium alginate 1000mg per 10ml
Sodium alginate is a naturally occurring polysaccharide derived from brown seaweed. Firstly, it has been used medicinally for its viscous, gel-forming properties for many decades.
Also, when sodium alginate contacts stomach acid, it forms alginic acid gel. Firstly, this gel has near-neutral pH.
However, at 1000mg per 10ml, Gaviscon Advance contains twice the alginate concentration of Gaviscon Original. Firstly, this gives a stronger and more durable raft.
Potassium hydrogen carbonate 200mg per 10ml
Potassium hydrogen carbonate (potassium bicarbonate) reacts with stomach acid to release carbon dioxide bubbles. Firstly, these bubbles get trapped in the alginate gel.
Also, the trapped CO2 makes the gel float on top of the stomach contents. Firstly, this floating gel is the 'raft' that physically blocks reflux.
However, using potassium bicarbonate instead of sodium bicarbonate reduces the sodium content of the finished product. Firstly, this is an advantage of Advance over Original.
Calcium carbonate 200mg per 10ml (excipient with functional role)
Calcium carbonate provides calcium ions that support the raft-forming reaction. Firstly, it also has mild antacid effect on any stomach acid not neutralised by the raft.
However, patients with hypercalcaemia, nephrocalcinosis, or calcium-containing kidney stones should use with caution due to the calcium content.
What is Gaviscon Advance Peppermint Suspension for?
Heartburn
Heartburn is the burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid refluxing up into the oesophagus. Firstly, Gaviscon Advance's raft blocks this reflux physically.
Acid regurgitation
Acid regurgitation is when stomach contents come up into the throat or mouth, often causing a sour or bitter taste. Firstly, the alginate raft prevents this by acting as a physical barrier.
Symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux
These include heartburn, acid regurgitation, chest discomfort, and sometimes cough (particularly at night). Firstly, Gaviscon Advance addresses the physical process of reflux.
Indigestion (dyspepsia)
Dyspepsia can include a range of upper GI symptoms: stomach discomfort, bloating, nausea, early fullness. Firstly, Gaviscon Advance can help when acid or reflux is a component.
Pregnancy-related heartburn
Heartburn is very common in pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester. Firstly, Gaviscon Advance is often recommended as the Gaviscon of choice during pregnancy.
However, if heartburn is severe or persistent, discuss with your midwife or GP.
Post-meal symptoms
Symptoms occurring after meals (especially large meals, spicy foods, or lying down soon after eating). Firstly, Gaviscon Advance taken after meals gives protection during the vulnerable post-meal period.
Night-time reflux
Reflux symptoms during sleep can wake you up or contribute to poor sleep. Firstly, a bedtime dose of Gaviscon Advance provides overnight protection.
What Gaviscon Advance isn't for
Gaviscon Advance is not for chronic acid-related conditions needing PPI therapy. Firstly, prescription PPIs are usually more appropriate for confirmed GORD, oesophagitis, or ulcers.
Also, it is not for chest pain of cardiac origin. Firstly, if chest pain is severe, radiating, or with breathlessness, call 999.
However, it is not for children under 12 without medical advice. Firstly, Infant Gaviscon is a separate product for younger children.
How does Gaviscon Advance Peppermint Suspension work?
The alginate raft (the main mechanism)
Sodium alginate is a viscous, gel-forming polymer. Firstly, when it contacts stomach acid, it precipitates into alginic acid gel.
Also, potassium bicarbonate reacts with stomach acid to release carbon dioxide. Firstly, these CO2 bubbles get trapped in the alginate gel, making it float.
However, this floating gel raft physically blocks stomach contents from refluxing up into the oesophagus. Firstly, the raft has near-neutral pH, so it does not itself irritate the oesophagus if refluxed.
Duration of raft protection
The raft can provide up to 4 hours of protection per dose. Firstly, this is longer than the immediate but short-lived neutralisation from simple antacids.
However, individual response varies. Firstly, factors like meal composition and gastric motility affect how long the raft lasts.
Physical barrier vs pharmacological acid reduction
Gaviscon Advance is fundamentally different from H2 antagonists and PPIs. Firstly, it does not reduce acid production; it forms a physical barrier.
Also, this means it can be used on demand for immediate relief.
However, it does not treat the underlying acid production. Firstly, this is why persistent symptoms often need PPI or H2 antagonist therapy.
Complementary use with acid-suppressing medicines
Because Gaviscon Advance works through a different mechanism than PPIs or H2 antagonists, they can be used together. Firstly, Gaviscon Advance provides fast breakthrough relief while PPIs reduce baseline acid production.
Treatment dosage for Gaviscon Advance Peppermint Suspension
At a glance
Age: adults and adolescents 12 years and over
Dose per intake: 5-10ml (one to two 5ml spoonfuls)
Frequency: after meals and at bedtime
Maximum: 40ml (four doses) in 24 hours
Duration: up to 7 days without medical advice
Administration: shake bottle well before use; measure with cup provided or 5ml medicine spoon
Adult and adolescent (12+) dose
Take 5-10ml (one to two 5ml spoonfuls) after meals and at bedtime, up to four times daily. Firstly, do not exceed 40ml (four doses) in any 24-hour period.
Also, most patients take Gaviscon Advance after meals and at bedtime. Firstly, this covers the times when acid reflux is most common (after eating and when lying down).
Children under 12
Not for use in children under 12 without medical advice. Firstly, other options may be more appropriate for younger children (Infant Gaviscon, pharmacist advice).
Elderly patients
No specific dose reduction is required in adults over 60. Firstly, however, be aware of the sodium and potassium content if you have heart failure or kidney disease.
Pregnancy
Gaviscon Advance is often recommended as the Gaviscon of choice during pregnancy. Firstly, it has extra-strength action and lower sodium than Gaviscon Original.
However, if you need it regularly, discuss with your midwife or GP. Firstly, persistent heartburn in pregnancy may need alternative treatment.
Breastfeeding
Gaviscon Advance can be used in breastfeeding. Firstly, it is a common first-line choice for reflux symptoms when breastfeeding.
Also, the active ingredients are not significantly absorbed systemically. Firstly, they do not pass into breast milk in significant amounts.
Renal impairment
Use with caution in significant renal impairment. Firstly, the sodium content, potassium content, and calcium content may all be relevant.
However, discuss with your GP or pharmacist if you have kidney disease.
Heart failure or low-salt diet
Use with caution in congestive heart failure or if on a low-salt diet. Firstly, Gaviscon Advance is considered high in sodium.
Duration limits
Do not take Gaviscon Advance for more than 7 days without medical advice. Firstly, persistent symptoms may indicate a more significant condition needing assessment or prescription treatment.
How to take Gaviscon Advance Peppermint Suspension
Standard adult dose
Adults and adolescents 12 and over: take 5-10ml (one to two 5ml spoonfuls) after meals and at bedtime. Firstly, use up to four times daily.
Shake before use
Shake the bottle well before each dose. Firstly, this ensures the alginate suspension is properly mixed. Sedimentation can occur during storage.
How to measure the dose
Use the measuring cup provided with the pack, or a 5ml medicine spoon. Firstly, do not use household teaspoons as they vary in size.
When to take
Take Gaviscon Advance after meals and at bedtime. Firstly, this covers the times when acid reflux is most common.
Also, after meals: the raft forms in the presence of stomach acid released for digestion.
However, at bedtime: lying down makes reflux more likely, so a bedtime dose gives overnight protection.
How quickly it works
The alginate raft usually forms within minutes of swallowing the suspension. Firstly, symptom relief is often noticed rapidly.
Also, the raft can provide protection for up to 4 hours per dose.
Separating from other medicines
Above all, leave at least 2 hours between Gaviscon Advance and other oral medicines. Firstly, the alginate raft can reduce the absorption of some medicines.
Also, particularly important with tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics, iron salts, thyroid hormones, chloroquine, and bisphosphonates.
Missed doses
If you miss a dose, take it if symptoms are present or expected. Firstly, however, do not exceed the maximum daily dose (40ml).
Stopping treatment
Gaviscon Advance can be stopped whenever symptoms have settled. Firstly, there is no need to taper.
However, if symptoms return quickly after stopping, consider whether prescription treatment (PPI or H2 antagonist) might be more appropriate.
Do not exceed the stated dose
Do not take more than 40ml (four doses) in 24 hours. Firstly, exceeding the dose does not improve effect but adds unnecessary sodium load.
Warnings and precautions for Gaviscon Advance Peppermint Suspension
Symptoms lasting more than 7 days
Above all, if symptoms persist for more than 7 days, consult a doctor. Firstly, persistent reflux may indicate a more significant condition needing prescription treatment or investigation.
Alarm symptoms (see a doctor before using)
Certain symptoms need medical assessment before using self-care products. Firstly, these include difficulty or painful swallowing, unintended weight loss, persistent vomiting, or vomiting blood.
However, iron deficiency anaemia or new symptoms in someone over 55 also need medical assessment.
Sodium content (high)
Gaviscon Advance is considered high in sodium. Firstly, this is particularly important for patients on low salt diets, with congestive heart failure, or with renal impairment.
However, discuss with your GP or pharmacist if these apply to you.
Potassium content
Each 5ml contains approximately 1.0 mmol (39.06 mg) potassium. Firstly, this is particularly important in patients with reduced kidney function or on a controlled potassium diet.
Calcium content
Each 10ml contains 200mg (2.0 mmol) of calcium from calcium carbonate. Firstly, use with caution in patients with hypercalcaemia, nephrocalcinosis, or recurrent calcium-containing kidney stones.
Parabens allergy
Gaviscon Advance contains methyl and propyl parahydroxybenzoates (E218 and E216). Firstly, these can rarely cause allergic reactions (sometimes delayed).
However, if you have known paraben allergy, avoid Gaviscon Advance.
Renal impairment
Use with caution in significant renal impairment. Firstly, the sodium, potassium, and calcium content may all be relevant.
Heart failure
Use with caution in congestive heart failure. Firstly, the sodium content may worsen fluid retention.
Hypersensitivity
Do not use if allergic to any of the ingredients (sodium alginate, potassium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, parabens, or other excipients).
Pregnancy
Gaviscon Advance is often recommended as the Gaviscon of choice during pregnancy. Firstly, it has extra-strength action and lower sodium than Gaviscon Original.
Breastfeeding
Gaviscon Advance can be used in breastfeeding. Firstly, the active ingredients are not significantly absorbed and do not pass into breast milk in significant amounts.
Driving and machinery
No effects on ability to drive or use machinery. Firstly, the medicine acts locally in the stomach and is not systemically absorbed to any significant extent.
Alcohol
No direct interaction with alcohol. However, alcohol can worsen acid-related symptoms and reflux.
Separation from other medicines
Above all, leave at least 2 hours between Gaviscon Advance and other oral medicines. Firstly, the alginate raft can reduce absorption of some medicines.
Duration of use
Do not take Gaviscon Advance for more than 7 days without medical advice. Firstly, ongoing symptoms need medical assessment.
Side effects of Gaviscon Advance Peppermint Suspension
Common and less common side effects
Gaviscon Advance is generally well tolerated at recommended doses. Firstly, side effects are uncommon.
Also, mild bloating (from CO2 released during the raft-forming reaction) or belching may occur.
Rare but significant side effects
Allergic reactions to the parabens or other ingredients are rare but possible. Firstly, symptoms include rash, itching, swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing.
However, severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) have been reported very rarely.
Serious side effects requiring urgent help
Above all, seek urgent medical help for signs of severe allergic reaction (facial or throat swelling, breathing difficulty, widespread rash). Call 999.
Drug interactions with Gaviscon Advance Peppermint Suspension
Separate other oral medicines by 2 hours
Above all, leave at least 2 hours between Gaviscon Advance and other oral medicines. Firstly, the alginate raft can reduce absorption of some medicines.
Also, particularly important with tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics, iron salts, thyroid hormones (levothyroxine), chloroquine, bisphosphonates, and phenothiazines.
PPIs and H2 antagonists (compatible)
Gaviscon Advance can be used alongside PPIs or H2 antagonists. Firstly, no direct interaction is expected.
However, if using both, some prescribers recommend taking Gaviscon Advance for breakthrough symptoms rather than continuously.
Antacids (compatible)
Gaviscon Advance can be used alongside simple antacids. Firstly, however, this is usually not needed as Gaviscon Advance addresses both reflux and mild acid.
Anticoagulants and cardiac medicines
No direct interaction with warfarin, DOACs, or standard cardiac medicines. However, the sodium content should be considered in patients with heart failure or on low-sodium diets.
Alcohol
No direct interaction. However, alcohol worsens acid-related symptoms.
Other cold and flu medicines
Gaviscon Advance can be used with paracetamol, ibuprofen, or cold and flu products. Firstly, no direct interaction is expected.
Frequently asked questions about Gaviscon Advance Peppermint Suspension
How is Gaviscon Advance different from Gaviscon Original?
Gaviscon Advance contains twice the sodium alginate (1000mg vs 500mg per 10ml). Firstly, this gives a stronger and longer-lasting raft.
The raft forms within minutes of swallowing. Firstly, symptom relief is often noticed quickly.
How long does the effect last?
Up to 4 hours per dose. Firstly, this is longer than simple antacids.
How much should I take?
Adults and adolescents 12+: 5-10ml (one to two 5ml spoonfuls) after meals and at bedtime, up to four times daily. Firstly, maximum 40ml in 24 hours.
Can I take Gaviscon Advance with a PPI or H2 antagonist?
Yes. Firstly, they work through different mechanisms and complement each other well.
However, leave at least 2 hours between doses.
Is Gaviscon Advance safe in pregnancy?
Yes. Firstly, it is often recommended as the Gaviscon of choice during pregnancy.
Is Gaviscon Advance safe while breastfeeding?
Yes. Firstly, the active ingredients are not significantly absorbed and do not pass into breast milk in significant amounts.
Can children take Gaviscon Advance?
Only adolescents aged 12 and over. Firstly, younger children need medical advice.
Also, Infant Gaviscon is a separate product for very young children.
Does Gaviscon Advance contain sugar?
No. Firstly, Gaviscon Advance is sugar-free. It uses sodium saccharin as a sweetener.
Is Gaviscon Advance gluten-free?
Yes. Firstly, Gaviscon Advance is gluten-free.
Is Gaviscon Advance vegan-friendly?
Yes. Firstly, all ingredients are plant or synthetic in origin.
Can I take Gaviscon Advance if I have high blood pressure?
Discuss with your pharmacist or GP. Firstly, Gaviscon Advance is high in sodium, which may be a concern for people with hypertension or fluid retention.
Can I take Gaviscon Advance if I have heart failure?
Discuss with your GP. Firstly, the sodium content may worsen fluid retention in heart failure.
Can I take Gaviscon Advance if I have kidney disease?
Discuss with your GP or pharmacist. Firstly, the sodium, potassium, and calcium content may be significant in renal impairment.
Does Gaviscon Advance interact with other medicines?
Leave at least 2 hours between Gaviscon Advance and other oral medicines. Firstly, particularly important with tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, iron salts, thyroid hormones, chloroquine, and bisphosphonates.
How long can I take Gaviscon Advance for?
Up to 7 days without medical advice. Firstly, persistent symptoms need medical assessment.
What if my symptoms don't improve?
If symptoms persist beyond 7 days, see your GP. Firstly, chronic or frequent reflux may need prescription PPI therapy.
Can I use Gaviscon Advance for stomach ulcers?
Not as primary treatment. Firstly, ulcers need PPI therapy and possibly H. pylori eradication.
However, Gaviscon Advance can provide symptomatic relief alongside prescription treatment.
Should I take Gaviscon Advance before or after meals?
After meals, and at bedtime if needed. Firstly, this covers the times when acid reflux is most common.
Do I need a prescription for Gaviscon Advance from Courier Pharmacy?
No. Firstly, Gaviscon Advance is a general sale (GSL) or pharmacy (P) medicine, available without a prescription.
Disclaimer
Disclaimer: This information is for education only and isn't a substitute for personal medical advice. Always follow the packaging directions, and ask your pharmacist or GP if you're unsure whether Gaviscon Advance is right for your situation.
Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (2024) Yellow Card reporting. Available at: https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (2024) Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease and dyspepsia in adults (CG184). Available at: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/cg184
