Product description Gaviscon Advance Mint 60 Chewable Tablets
What Gaviscon Advance Mint Chewable Tablets are
Gaviscon Advance Mint Chewable Tablets are off-white to cream, circular, flat tablets with bevelled edges. Firstly, each tablet has a peppermint flavour and odour.
Each tablet contains 500mg sodium alginate and 100mg potassium bicarbonate as active ingredients. Firstly, two tablets deliver 1000mg alginate, the same as 10ml of Gaviscon Advance Suspension.
The chewable tablet advantage
Chewable tablets offer several practical advantages over the liquid suspension format. Firstly, no water needed, so you can take them anywhere.
Also, no spoon or measuring cup required. Firstly, this makes them convenient for work, travel, or when out and about.
No shaking is needed (unlike the suspension bottle). Firstly, the tablets can be kept in a pocket, bag, or drawer without sedimentation concerns.
Furthermore, the 60-tablet pack is compact and portable. Firstly, this makes it easy to keep at your desk, in the car, or on holiday.
The alginate raft mechanism
Once chewed and swallowed, the 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.
Extra-strength positioning
Gaviscon Advance contains double the sodium alginate concentration of Gaviscon Original. Firstly, this gives a stronger and more resilient raft.
Also, Advance uses potassium bicarbonate instead of sodium bicarbonate, reducing sodium load compared to Original.
However, Advance still contains some sodium from the sodium alginate itself. Firstly, it is not sodium-free.
Key features and specifications
Active ingredients per tablet: sodium alginate 500mg + potassium bicarbonate 100mg
Adult dose per intake: 1-2 tablets
Form: off-white to cream, circular, bevelled-edge chewable tablet with peppermint flavour, marked ‘Sword and Circle’ / ‘GA500’
Pack size: 60 tablets (also available in smaller packs of 24)
Extra-strength alginate raft-former in a portable chewable format for heartburn and acid reflux
Gaviscon Advance Mint Chewable Tablets are a reflux suppressant containing sodium alginate and potassium bicarbonate. Firstly, this is a general sale list (GSL) or pharmacy (P) medicine from Reckitt Benckiser Healthcare (UK).
Also, each tablet contains 500mg sodium alginate and 100mg potassium bicarbonate. Firstly, taking two tablets delivers 1000mg alginate, the same dose as 10ml of Gaviscon Advance Suspension.
However, the chewable tablet format offers convenience the suspension cannot match. Firstly, no water needed, no spoon or measuring cup required, no shaking, and easy to carry in a pocket or bag.
Furthermore, the mechanism is the same as the Gaviscon Advance Suspension. Firstly, once chewed and swallowed, the ingredients react with stomach acid to form a floating alginate raft.
Above all, this raft physically blocks stomach contents from refluxing up into the oesophagus for up to 4 hours. Firstly, this is fundamentally different from antacids (which neutralise acid) and PPIs (which reduce acid production).
Also, adults and adolescents 12 and over take 1-2 tablets after meals and at bedtime, up to four times daily. Firstly, chew each tablet thoroughly before swallowing.
However, the tablets have a refreshing mint flavour, making them pleasant to chew. Firstly, this can help with compliance for regular users.
Furthermore, the tablets are sugar-free, gluten-free, and vegan-friendly. Firstly, they use aspartame and acesulfame potassium as sweeteners.
Above all, patients with phenylketonuria (PKU) must NOT take these tablets. Firstly, they contain aspartame, which is a source of phenylalanine. The Gaviscon Advance Suspension is aspartame-free and is the alternative for PKU patients.
Also, the tablets are considered high in sodium. Firstly, this is important for patients on low-salt diets, or with heart failure or renal impairment.
However, the tablets are often recommended as convenient reflux relief during work, travel, or when suspension is impractical. Firstly, the 60-tablet pack is enough for regular use over several weeks.
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 Mint Chewable Tablets alongside other reflux and acid options. Our pharmacy team can advise on whether they fit your specific symptoms and situation.
When to see a doctor rather than self-treat
Gaviscon Advance Chewable Tablets are 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, because 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)
If you have phenylketonuria (PKU), do not take these tablets. Firstly, they contain aspartame. Use Gaviscon Advance Suspension instead
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
If you are pregnant, generally safe to take, but discuss with your midwife if you need it regularly
Five key takeaways
Gaviscon Advance Mint Chewable Tablets are an extra-strength alginate raft-former with sodium alginate 500mg and potassium bicarbonate 100mg per tablet. Two tablets = the same alginate dose as 10ml Gaviscon Advance Suspension.
Distinctive mechanism: forms a floating raft on stomach contents that physically blocks reflux for up to 4 hours. Different from antacids and PPIs.
Age 12 and over only. Dose: 1-2 tablets after meals and at bedtime, up to four times daily. Maximum 8 tablets in 24 hours. Chew thoroughly before swallowing.
Contains aspartame (source of phenylalanine, contraindicated in PKU). High sodium content. Contains calcium and potassium. Sugar-free, gluten-free, vegan-friendly.
Portable format, no water needed. Ideal for travel or when suspension is impractical. General sale list (GSL) or pharmacy (P) medicine depending on pack size. Available from Courier Pharmacy.
What are Gaviscon Advance Mint Chewable Tablets: overview
Where Gaviscon Advance Tablets fit 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 Advance Tablets, Gaviscon Original, 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 Tablets vs Gaviscon Advance Suspension
Both formulations contain the same active ingredients at equivalent doses per intake. Firstly, 2 tablets = 10ml suspension = 1000mg sodium alginate + 200mg potassium bicarbonate.
Also, the tablets are portable, no water needed, easy for travel.
However, the suspension is often preferred by patients who dislike chewing tablets or who need very rapid onset (the suspension may act slightly faster due to already being in liquid form).
Furthermore, importantly, the tablets contain aspartame while the suspension does not. Firstly, PKU patients must use the suspension.
Gaviscon Advance Tablets vs Gaviscon Original Tablets
Gaviscon Advance contains twice the sodium alginate per tablet as Gaviscon Original. Firstly, this gives a stronger and longer-lasting raft.
However, Advance is more expensive than Original. Firstly, choice depends on symptom severity and patient preference.
Gaviscon Advance Tablets vs Rennie or Tums (simple antacids)
Rennie and Tums are chewable antacids containing 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 Tablets form a physical raft that provides longer protection (up to 4 hours). Firstly, this is more effective for regurgitation and reflux symptoms than simple antacids.
Gaviscon Advance Tablets vs H2 antagonists (Pepcid AC)
Pepcid AC contains famotidine 10mg (OTC H2 antagonist). Firstly, it reduces acid production for 8-12 hours.
Also, Gaviscon Advance Tablets work through a physical raft mechanism with faster onset but shorter duration.
However, the two can be combined for complementary effect.
Gaviscon Advance Tablets vs OTC PPI (Zanprol)
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 Tablets work immediately and can be used as needed. Firstly, they can be combined with PPI therapy for breakthrough symptoms.
Gaviscon Advance Tablets vs prescription PPIs
Prescription PPIs (rabeprazole, lansoprazole, omeprazole higher doses) give stronger and longer-lasting acid suppression. Firstly, they are used for confirmed reflux disease and ulcer healing.
Also, Gaviscon Advance Tablets are often used alongside prescription PPIs. Firstly, they provide fast portable relief for breakthrough reflux.
Complementary use with other acid-suppressing medicines
Gaviscon Advance Tablets can be used alongside 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 Tablets are 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.
Why choose Courier Pharmacy for your Gaviscon Advance Mint Chewable Tablets
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 Tablets, 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 Mint 60 Chewable Tablets from Courier Pharmacy
Gaviscon Advance Mint 60 Chewable Tablets are a general sale (GSL) or pharmacy (P) medicine, depending on pack size. You can order at courierpharmacy.co.uk.
Add Gaviscon Advance Mint 60 Chewable Tablets to your basket
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 Chewable Tablets are not the right product for your situation, we will explain why. Options include Gaviscon Advance Peppermint or Aniseed Suspension (aspartame-free, preferred for PKU patients), Gaviscon Original Chewable Tablets (lower strength), Gaviscon Double Action (combines raft-former plus stronger antacid), Rennie Peppermint (simple 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 in a portable chewable format for adults and adolescents 12+ with heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux.
Each tablet contains sodium alginate 500mg and potassium bicarbonate 100mg. Two tablets = 1000mg alginate = same as 10ml Gaviscon Advance Suspension.
Distinctive mechanism: floating raft that physically blocks reflux for up to 4 hours.
Chewable format offers portability advantage over suspension. However, contains aspartame (not for PKU).
Sugar-free, gluten-free, vegan-friendly. High in sodium. Contains parabens are absent from tablets (compared to suspension).
Active ingredients in Gaviscon Advance Mint Chewable Tablets
Sodium alginate 500mg per tablet
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 with near-neutral pH.
However, at 500mg per tablet, two tablets deliver 1000mg alginate. Firstly, this is the same alginate dose as 10ml of Gaviscon Advance Suspension.
Potassium bicarbonate 100mg per tablet
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 (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.
Excipients in Gaviscon Advance Mint Chewable Tablets
Aspartame (E951), PKU warning
Aspartame is used as a sweetener in the chewable tablet formulation. Firstly, aspartame is a source of phenylalanine.
Also, patients with phenylketonuria (PKU) must avoid this formulation. Firstly, they cannot metabolise phenylalanine properly, which can cause serious neurological effects.
However, patients with PKU should use Gaviscon Advance Suspension instead, which does not contain aspartame.
Sodium content (high)
Each tablet contains 53.22mg sodium (2.7% of WHO recommended daily maximum). Firstly, the maximum daily dose (8 tablets) provides 425.76mg sodium (21.28% of daily max).
However, this is considered high in sodium. Firstly, particularly important for patients on low-salt diets, with congestive heart failure, or with renal impairment.
Other excipients
The tablet also contains mannitol (E421), macrogol 20000, magnesium stearate, mint flavour no. 3, acesulfame potassium, and copovidone. Firstly, these support the tablet formulation and flavour.
However, unlike the Gaviscon Advance Suspension, the tablets do not contain parabens (methyl and propyl parahydroxybenzoates). Firstly, this may be an advantage for patients with paraben allergy.
What are Gaviscon Advance Mint Chewable Tablets for?
Heartburn
Heartburn is the burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid refluxing up into the oesophagus. Firstly, Gaviscon Advance Tablets form a raft that 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 Tablets address 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 Tablets can help when acid or reflux is a component.
Post-meal symptoms
Symptoms occurring after meals (especially large meals, spicy foods, or lying down soon after eating). Firstly, chewing 1-2 tablets after meals gives protection during the vulnerable post-meal period.
On-the-go reflux relief
The chewable tablet format is ideal for reflux relief when away from home. Firstly, no water, no spoon, no shaking. Just chew the tablet and swallow.
Also, particularly useful during work, travel, meals out, or when suspension is impractical.
What Gaviscon Advance Tablets aren't for
Not for chronic acid-related conditions needing PPI therapy. Firstly, prescription PPIs are usually more appropriate for confirmed GORD, oesophagitis, or ulcers.
Also, not for chest pain of cardiac origin. Firstly, if chest pain is severe, radiating, or with breathlessness, call 999.
However, not for children under 12 without medical advice.
Furthermore, not for patients with phenylketonuria (PKU). Firstly, use the aspartame-free Gaviscon Advance Suspension instead.
How do Gaviscon Advance Mint Chewable Tablets 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.
Why chewing matters
Chewing the tablet thoroughly before swallowing is important. Firstly, this breaks down the tablet matrix and mixes the ingredients with saliva.
Also, this optimises the raft-forming reaction when the ingredients reach the stomach. Firstly, swallowing the tablet whole reduces effectiveness.
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 Tablets are fundamentally different from H2 antagonists and PPIs. Firstly, they do not reduce acid production; they form a physical barrier.
Also, this means they can be used on demand for immediate relief.
Treatment dosage for Gaviscon Advance Mint Chewable Tablets
At a glance
Age: adults and adolescents 12 years and over
Dose per intake: 1-2 tablets (500-1000mg sodium alginate)
Frequency: after meals and at bedtime
Maximum: 8 tablets in 24 hours
Duration: up to 7 days without medical advice
Administration: chew thoroughly before swallowing, follow with a drink of water if preferred
Adult and adolescent (12+) dose
Take 1-2 tablets after meals and at bedtime, up to four times daily. Firstly, do not exceed 8 tablets (four doses) in any 24-hour period.
Also, two tablets provide 1000mg sodium alginate, the same as 10ml of Gaviscon Advance Suspension.
However, most patients take Gaviscon Advance Tablets after meals and at bedtime. Firstly, this covers the times when acid reflux is most common.
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 content if you have heart failure or fluid retention.
Pregnancy
Gaviscon Advance is often recommended during pregnancy for heartburn relief. Firstly, however, the aspartame-free Suspension may be preferred by some clinicians.
Also, if you need it regularly during pregnancy, discuss with your midwife or GP.
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.
Phenylketonuria (PKU)
Above all, patients with phenylketonuria (PKU) must NOT take these tablets. Firstly, they contain aspartame, which provides phenylalanine.
However, Gaviscon Advance Suspension is aspartame-free and is the alternative for PKU patients.
Renal impairment or heart failure
Use with caution in significant renal impairment, congestive heart failure, or if on a low-salt diet. Firstly, the sodium, potassium, and calcium content may all be relevant.
Duration limits
Do not take Gaviscon Advance Tablets 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 Mint Chewable Tablets
Standard adult dose
Adults and adolescents 12 and over: take 1-2 tablets after meals and at bedtime. Firstly, use up to four times daily.
Chew thoroughly before swallowing
Above all, chew each tablet thoroughly before swallowing. Firstly, this activates the alginate and mixes it with saliva before the tablet reaches the stomach.
Also, do not swallow the tablet whole. Firstly, this reduces the effectiveness of the raft-forming action.
Water optional
You can follow the chewed tablet with a drink of water if preferred. Firstly, however, water is not required.
Also, this is why the tablets are convenient for travel or when water is not readily available.
When to take
Take Gaviscon Advance Tablets 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 chewed tablet. 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 (8 tablets).
Stopping treatment
Gaviscon Advance Tablets 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 8 tablets in 24 hours. Firstly, exceeding the dose does not improve effect but adds unnecessary sodium and calcium load.
Also, mild bloating or abdominal discomfort can occur if you take too many.
Warnings and precautions for Gaviscon Advance Mint Chewable Tablets
Phenylketonuria (PKU), aspartame contraindication
Above all, patients with phenylketonuria (PKU) must not take these tablets. Firstly, they contain aspartame, which provides phenylalanine.
However, PKU patients should use Gaviscon Advance Suspension instead, which is aspartame-free.
Symptoms lasting more than 7 days
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.
Sodium content (high)
Gaviscon Advance Tablets are considered high in sodium. Firstly, particularly important for patients on low salt diets, with congestive heart failure, or with renal impairment.
Potassium content
Each tablet contains approximately 1.01 mmol (39.43 mg) potassium. Firstly, important in patients with reduced kidney function or on a controlled potassium diet.
Calcium content
The tablets contain calcium from calcium carbonate. Firstly, use with caution in patients with hypercalcaemia, nephrocalcinosis, or recurrent calcium-containing kidney stones.
Hypersensitivity
Do not use if allergic to any of the ingredients (sodium alginate, potassium bicarbonate, aspartame, mannitol, or other excipients).
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.
Pregnancy
Gaviscon Advance Tablets can be used in pregnancy. Firstly, however, some clinicians prefer the aspartame-free Suspension formulation.
Breastfeeding
Gaviscon Advance Tablets 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 Tablets for more than 7 days without medical advice. Firstly, ongoing symptoms need medical assessment.
Side effects of Gaviscon Advance Mint Chewable Tablets
Common and less common side effects
Gaviscon Advance Tablets are 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.
However, if you take more than the recommended dose, mild abdominal discomfort can occur.
Rare but significant side effects
Allergic reactions to the 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 Mint Chewable Tablets
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 Tablets 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 Tablets 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 Tablets can be used with paracetamol, ibuprofen, or cold and flu products. Firstly, no direct interaction is expected.
Frequently asked questions about Gaviscon Advance Mint 60 Chewable Tablets
How is Gaviscon Advance Tablets different from Gaviscon Advance Suspension?
Both contain the same active ingredients at equivalent doses. Firstly, 2 tablets = 10ml suspension = 1000mg sodium alginate + 200mg potassium bicarbonate.
Also, the tablets are portable, no water needed, ideal for travel or work.
However, the tablets contain aspartame (source of phenylalanine); the suspension does not. Firstly, PKU patients must use the suspension.
How quickly do Gaviscon Advance Tablets work?
The raft usually forms within minutes of swallowing the chewed tablet. 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 many tablets should I take?
Adults and adolescents 12+: 1-2 tablets after meals and at bedtime, up to four times daily. Firstly, maximum 8 tablets in 24 hours.
Do I need water to take the tablets?
No. Firstly, the tablets are designed to be chewed thoroughly and swallowed. Water is not required.
However, some people prefer to follow the chewed tablet with a drink of water.
Can I take Gaviscon Advance Tablets 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.
Are Gaviscon Advance Tablets safe in pregnancy?
Yes. Firstly, however, some clinicians prefer the aspartame-free Suspension formulation.
Are Gaviscon Advance Tablets 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 Tablets?
Only adolescents aged 12 and over. Firstly, younger children need medical advice.
Also, Infant Gaviscon is a separate product for very young children.
Do the tablets contain sugar?
No. Firstly, Gaviscon Advance Tablets are sugar-free. They use aspartame and acesulfame potassium as sweeteners.
Are the tablets gluten-free?
Yes. Firstly, Gaviscon Advance Tablets are gluten-free.
Are the tablets vegan-friendly?
Yes. Firstly, all ingredients are plant or synthetic in origin.
Can I take Gaviscon Advance Tablets if I have phenylketonuria (PKU)?
No. Firstly, the tablets contain aspartame, which provides phenylalanine.
However, Gaviscon Advance Suspension is aspartame-free and is the alternative for PKU patients.
Can I take Gaviscon Advance Tablets if I have high blood pressure?
Discuss with your pharmacist or GP. Firstly, the tablets are high in sodium, which may be a concern for people with hypertension or fluid retention.
Can I take Gaviscon Advance Tablets 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 Tablets if I have kidney disease?
Discuss with your GP or pharmacist. Firstly, the sodium, potassium, and calcium content may be significant in renal impairment.
Do Gaviscon Advance Tablets 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 Tablets 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.
Should I take Gaviscon Advance Tablets 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 to chew the tablets thoroughly?
Yes. Firstly, chewing breaks down the tablet matrix and optimises the raft-forming reaction. Do not swallow the tablets whole.
Do I need a prescription for Gaviscon Advance Tablets from Courier Pharmacy?
No. Firstly, Gaviscon Advance Chewable Tablets are 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 Chewable Tablets are 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
