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Why does the stomach produce acid?

Stomach acid has a bad reputation, but it’s actually there to protect your stomach lining.

Excess stomach acid (indigestion) can be caused by what you eat, how you eat and when you eat, amongst other things. Irritating the stomach lining or your throat, giving you a burning feeling, an acidic taste in your mouth and pain.

 

Most people have indigestion at some point, and you can treat it at home by:

Cutting down on tea, coffee, fizz and alcohol
Eating supper 3 to 4 hours before going to bed
Propping your head and shoulders up in bed (to stop stomach acid coming up while you rest)
Not smoking

Lifestyle changes are always an important consideration. Quitting smoking, watching what you eat and taking steps to reduce stress are all effective measures. If symptoms persist for 7 days after taking non-prescription medications, please consult with your GP or pharmacist.

For the occasions when heartburn and indigestion are triggered, medications like antacids, alginates, or both can help to ease the pain. See how these medications can work for you.

What are antacids and how do they work?

Antacids are fast-acting short-term relief for heartburn and indigestion pain, neutralising the acid in your stomach to aid digestion. They work by neutralising excess acid after eating to relieve heartburn and indigestion. Available in tablet and liquid form.

What are alginates and how do they work?

Alginates provide long-lasting relief for up to 4 hours, even longer than antacids. Creating a protective barrier on top of the contents of your stomach, to stop stomach acid escaping into your food pipe causing discomfort.

Did you know? Gaviscon combines alginates and antacids for long lasting relief that lasts up to 4 hours.

What Gaviscon can do for you

Gaviscon combines antacids and alginates, proven to effectively relieve heartburn and indigestion.

Relieving more than one symptom Gaviscon gives fast-acting, long-lasting relief for up to 4 hours, easing:

  • Heartburn - Soothing the burning sensation in your chest or throat.
  • Indigestion - Reduces the pain in your upper abdomen.  

How to take Gaviscon

Gaviscon Double Action is available in various forms to suit you.

  • Tablets - Chew tablets thoroughly, take 2 to 4 tablets after meals and at bedtime up to 4 times a day.
  • Liquid - Shake the bottle well before use, take 2 to 4 teaspoonfuls (5ml) after meals and at bedtime up to 4 times a day.

 

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