This combination is indicated in:

• gastric reflux
• heartburn
• flatulence associated with gastric reflux
• heartburn during pregnancy
• all cases of epigastric and retrosternal discomfort where the underlying cause is gastric reflux

On ingestion, the product rapidly reacts with gastric acid and forms a raft of alginic acid gel with near-neutral pH. This raft floats on top of the stomach contents and forms a protective barrier. It quickly and effectively prevents gastro-oesophageal reflux for up to 4 hours. In severe cases, the raft itself may reflux into the esophagus instead of stomach contents, where it provides a soothing (demulcent) protective effect.

Indicated for children of 1-2 years. Consult with a registered physician for use in children below 1 year or above 2 years.

Less than 4.5 kg body weight: 1 sachet maximum 6 times daily

More than 4.5 kg body weight: 2 sachets maximum 6 times daily

Bottle feed infants: Mix each sachet into 115 ml (4 fl oz) of feed in the bottle. Shake well and feed as normal.

Breast feed infants and other infants up to 2 years: Mix each sachet with 5 ml (1 teaspoon) of cooled boiled water until a smooth paste is formed. Add another 10 ml (2 teaspoons) of cooled boiled water and mix. For breast feed infants give Gaviscon Infant part way through each feed or meal using a spoon or feeding bottle. For all other infants give Gaviscon Infant at the end of each meal using a spoon, or feeding bottle.

Treatment should not be administered more than six times in any 24 hour period. Not suitable for children over 2 years of age, adults or the elderly.

A time interval of at least 2 hours should be maintained between intake of Algicid and other medicines. This is especially important for: tetracyclines, digoxin, fluoroquinolones, iron salts, ketoconazole, neuroleptics, thyroid hormones, penicillamine, beta-blockers (atenolol, metoprolol, propranolol), glucocorticoids, chloroquine, bisphosphonates, and estramustine.

This medicine is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected hypersensitivity to the active ingredients or any excipients, including methyl parahydroxybenzoate and propyl parahydroxybenzoate.

Clinical studies in over 281 pregnant women and extensive post-marketing data show no evidence of malformations or fetal/neonatal toxicity from the active substances. Algicid may be used during pregnancy if clinically necessary. No harmful effects have been observed in breastfed newborns or infants. It can also be used during breastfeeding.

If symptoms do not improve within 7 days, the clinical condition should be reviewed. This medicine contains 255.76 mg (11.12 mmol) sodium per 20 ml dose, which equals 12.79% of the WHO recommended maximum daily sodium intake. The maximum daily dose equals 51.15% of the WHO limit. Each 20 ml contains 260 mg (6.5 mmol) calcium. Caution is required in patients with hypercalcaemia, nephrocalcinosis, or recurrent calcium-containing kidney stones.

Overdose with this formulation is rare. In case of suspected overdose, consult a registered physician immediately.

Antacids

Do not store above 30°C. Keep protected from light and out of reach of children.