Algicid Plus Oral Suspension

Introduction

Sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium carbonate are commonly combined in antacid formulations to treat symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and heartburn. This combination creates a protective barrier that floats on the surface of stomach contents, preventing reflux into the esophagus while neutralizing stomach acid. These agents are frequently used for the symptomatic relief of acid indigestion, heartburn, and acid reflux.

Uses

The combination of sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium carbonate is used to:

• Treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Alleviate heartburn
• Manage symptoms of acid indigestion and sour stomach
• Provide relief from acid reflux and prevent esophageal irritation

Mechanism of Action

Sodium alginate reacts with gastric acid to form a gel or raft that floats on top of the stomach contents. This raft acts as a barrier, preventing acid from refluxing into the esophagus. Sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate neutralize stomach acid, providing symptomatic relief from heartburn and indigestion. Sodium bicarbonate also helps generate carbon dioxide, which helps the alginate form the raft more effectively.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

The combination works within 10-15 minutes after ingestion, providing rapid relief from the symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn. The raft effect of sodium alginate lasts for several hours, providing ongoing protection from reflux.

Absorption

Sodium alginate is not absorbed systemically and works locally in the stomach. Sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate are absorbed to varying degrees. Sodium bicarbonate is rapidly absorbed and dissociates into sodium and bicarbonate ions. Calcium carbonate dissolves in gastric acid to form calcium ions, some of which are absorbed into the bloodstream.

Route of Elimination

Sodium alginate is excreted unchanged in the feces. Sodium bicarbonate is metabolized into carbon dioxide and water, which are excreted via the lungs and kidneys. Calcium carbonate is excreted mainly in the feces, with some calcium excreted in the urine.

Dosage

• Adult and children over 12 years:10-20 mL after meals and at bedtime, up to four times a day.
• Children 6 to 12 years: 5-10 mL after meals and at bedtime, up to four times a day.
• Children under 6 years: Not recommended.
• Elderly: No dose modifications necessary.

• Adults and children 12 years and over: Take two to four tablets after meals and at bedtime, up to four times a day.
• Children under 12 years: Tablets should be given only on medical advice.

The typical dosage for adults is:

• 10-20 mL of liquid suspension or 1-2 tablets after meals and at bedtime, or as directed by a healthcare provider.

Administration

The combination is available in liquid suspension or chewable tablet forms. The liquid should be shaken well before use and taken after meals and at bedtime. Chewable tablets should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. Avoid taking other medications within two hours of this combination to avoid interactions.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Bloating
• Flatulence
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Diarrhea

Toxicity

Toxicity from sodium alginate is rare as it is not systemically absorbed. Excessive intake of sodium bicarbonate may lead to metabolic alkalosis, characterized by symptoms such as confusion, vomiting, and muscle twitching. Excessive calcium carbonate intake may cause hypercalcemia, leading to weakness, kidney stones, and abnormal heart rhythms.

Precautions

Use with caution in patients with:

• Kidney disease (risk of hypercalcemia or electrolyte imbalance)
• Heart failure or high blood pressure (due to the sodium content)
• Hypercalcemia
• Chronic heartburn requiring prolonged treatment

Interaction

The combination may interact with other medications:

• Iron supplements: Sodium alginate may interfere with absorption.
• Antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones): Calcium carbonate can reduce the absorption of these medications.
• Thyroid medications (e.g., levothyroxine): Calcium carbonate may reduce the absorption of thyroid hormones.
• Bisphosphonates: Calcium can interfere with the absorption of bisphosphonates.

Disease Interaction

Patients with the following conditions should exercise caution:

• Kidney disease
• Hypercalcemia
• Heart disease (due to sodium bicarbonate)
• Electrolyte imbalances

Drug Interaction

Significant drug interactions include:

• Antibiotics: Reduced effectiveness of antibiotics like tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones when taken with calcium carbonate.
• Diuretics: Thiazide diuretics can increase the risk of hypercalcemia when combined with calcium carbonate.
• Antacids: Using other antacids can increase the risk of electrolyte imbalances.
• Bisphosphonates: Calcium can reduce the absorption of bisphosphonates.

Food Interactions

The combination is generally taken after meals to provide relief from reflux symptoms. It is important to avoid foods that trigger acid reflux, such as fatty, spicy, or acidic foods. Alcohol and caffeine may worsen symptoms of GERD, and it is advised to limit these while on the medication.

Pregnancy Use

This combination is considered safe for use during pregnancy when taken as directed, providing relief from heartburn and acid reflux, which are common during pregnancy. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider before use.

Lactation Use

The use of sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium carbonate is generally considered safe during breastfeeding. These compounds are either not absorbed or are present in small amounts that do not pose a risk to the infant.

Acute Overdose

Acute overdose may lead to symptoms of metabolic alkalosis (due to excessive bicarbonate), hypercalcemia, and gastrointestinal distress such as bloating and nausea. In severe cases, hypercalcemia can cause kidney dysfunction, cardiac arrhythmias, and mental confusion. Treatment includes discontinuing the medication and providing supportive care, including correcting electrolyte imbalances.

Contraindication

The combination is contraindicated in individuals with:

• Hypercalcemia
• Severe renal impairment
• Allergy to any of the components
• Metabolic alkalosis

Use Direction

Take the liquid suspension or chewable tablets after meals and before bedtime. Shake the liquid well before use, and chew tablets thoroughly before swallowing. Do not exceed the recommended dosage unless advised by a healthcare provider. Avoid lying down immediately after taking the medication.

Storage Conditions

Store the medication at room temperature, between 15°C and 30°C, in a dry place. Protect it from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Volume of Distribution

Sodium alginate works locally in the stomach, so it does not have a systemic volume of distribution. Sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate are distributed throughout the extracellular fluid after absorption, with calcium being stored in the bones.

Half Life

Sodium alginate does not have a half-life as it is not absorbed into the body. Sodium bicarbonate has a short half-life of around 1-2 hours, as it is metabolized into carbon dioxide and water. Calcium carbonate’s half-life varies based on calcium homeostasis and the body’s needs for calcium.

Clearance

Sodium alginate is excreted unchanged in the feces. Sodium bicarbonate is metabolized and excreted as carbon dioxide through the lungs and water through the kidneys. Calcium is primarily excreted in the feces, with small amounts excreted via the kidneys in the urine.

See in details version Algicid Plus Oral Suspension (500 mg+267 mg+160 mg)/10 ml also Algicid Plus Oral Suspension (500 mg+267 mg+160 mg)/10 ml in bangla

Social card

‹ ›

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Algicid Plus Oral Suspension (500 mg+267 mg+160 mg)/10 ml