Pregnancy is the most critical period. However, while carrying a child, women may experience some discomfort, as well as some difficulties.
One of the unpleasant sensations is heartburn and its accompanying manifestations. That is why many are interested in whether Gaviscon is possible during pregnancy, since this drug is considered the safest.
Causes of discomfort
Heartburn is an unpleasant sensation or burning sensation that can radiate to the neck area. It can provoke very strong discomfort and leads to a deterioration in mood, which is highly undesirable during pregnancy. A similar problem occurs due to exposure to hydrochloric acid.
Heartburn is often observed in pregnant women, regardless of whether they have had this problem before or not. Often it appears after overeating.
During pregnancy, heartburn occurs due to the relaxation of the stomach muscles. This happens due to the influence of hormones, which, when carrying a child, change their level. Another factor is an increase in intra-abdominal pressure. This is due to the enlargement of the uterus.
Quick problem solving
Heartburn in pregnant women mainly occurs at the end of the first trimester or at the beginning of the second. It can continue until the very birth, and at the same time the discomfort increases all the time. After that, its decrease may be observed, or heartburn disappears completely on its own.
Feature of the drug
The drug "Gaviscon" during pregnancy is a real salvation, as many women during this period suffer from heartburn. After taking the remedy begins to act immediately. The active components of the drug literally envelop the walls of the stomach with a film, thereby creating a strong barrier. This allows you to protect the mucosa from the aggressive effects of hydrochloric acid contained in gastric juice.
An important feature of the drug is that it does not affect the acidity of the stomach. This makes it possible to digest the food consumed in the usual way, but without negative manifestations.
Can it be taken during pregnancy?
According to the instructions for the drug, Gaviscon is not prohibited during pregnancy. The composition of the drug is quite simple and does not contain prohibited components. The action of the drug is based on its components such as sodium, baking soda and potassium. It is soda that helps to neutralize stomach acid, as a result of which, after taking the drug, literally in 15-20 minutes, heartburn completely disappears.
The medicine belongs to the group of alginates, that is, drugs that, after taking, form a special film on the surface of the esophagus and stomach. It is she who serves as a barrier and does not allow the effects of hydrochloric acid on the mucosa of the esophagus.
The ongoing tests have shown that the active substance of the drug does not have a toxic effect on the embryo. In addition, it is not absorbed into the systemic circulation and does not cross the placenta.
It is worth noting that the drug "Gaviscon" from heartburn during pregnancy has a symptomatic effect. The medicine helps to quickly and effectively cope with the unpleasant symptoms of dyspeptic disorders, but does not eliminate the main cause of their occurrence.
Often, heartburn and belching go away on their own immediately after delivery, as they arise as a result of pressure from the enlarged uterus on the stomach area and when the hormonal background changes. If unpleasant symptoms persist even after childbirth, then it is necessary to undergo a comprehensive examination, as well as treatment.
Composition and form of release
Depending on the form of release, the Gaviscon instruction during pregnancy recommends taking into account the dosage of the drug. This drug is available in dosage forms such as:
- dosed sachets;
- suspension;
- chewable tablets.
You can buy it without a prescription, however, despite this, it is highly undesirable to self-medicate. The drug "Gaviscon" during pregnancy should be prescribed only by the attending physician. It consists of:
- baking soda;
- sodium;
- potassium;
- flavor;
- acesulfame potassium;
- macrogol.
All these components do their job very well and give the drug the required properties.
In addition, the drug has such variations:
- Gaviscon (classic);
- "Gaviscon double action";
- "Gaviscon forte";
- "Gaviscon forte" (during pregnancy).
Different versions of the drug differ in the number of active ingredients and their dosage. Many often confuse the Gaviscon prescribed during pregnancy and the Hexicon candles. The latter drug is used to treat sexually transmitted diseases or diseases of the urinary system.
Women during childbearing are allowed to take absolutely any combination of the drug. If circumstances force, then you can drink the drug for a long time. In such cases, doctors recommend exactly "Gaviscon forte" (during pregnancy). It has a very convenient release form, as well as a slightly different composition, which significantly reduces the risk to the health of the unborn child.
When does the doctor prescribe the medicine and for how long?
The drug "Gaviscon" during pregnancy is prescribed exclusively by the attending doctor. Among the indications for taking this remedy, it is necessary to highlight:
- dyspepsia;
- heartburn;
- discomfort and heaviness in the stomach.
Often, heartburn occurs at a later date, and the reason for this is the increase in pressure of the growing uterus. However, it is worth noting that you can take Gaviscon during pregnancy and in the early stages, in the first trimester, since this drug has almost no contraindications.
The pharmacological action of the drug is based on the fact that when interacting with gastric juice, it creates a kind of barrier that is located on the surface of the stomach and protects its walls from acid exposure. After taking the drug acts for about 4 hours.
Application features
Depending on the woman's well-being and the chosen form of the drug, an individual dosage is prescribed. The most convenient form are tablets, as they are very easy to carry around with you all the time and take them if necessary. According to the instructions for use, "Gaviscon" during pregnancy is prescribed in a single dosage of 2-4 tablets. No water is required for taking, as the lozenges have a rather pleasant aftertaste, thanks to flavorings, and are easily chewed. Pregnant women are advised to start with a lower dosage, and with a weak effect, it should be increased.
Also, the drug is available in the form of metered sachets, which are intended for single use. It is allowed to use them up to 8 times a day. Before use, the sachet should be slightly crushed to ensure better mixing of the components. The drug "Gaviscon forte" (during pregnancy) is prescribed in a volume of 5-10 ml per dose, but not more than 40 ml per day. This type of remedy is characterized by the fact that it is prescribed exclusively to women during the period of bearing a child.
Suspension "Gaviscon" during pregnancy helps to quickly eliminate an attack of heartburn. It is better to take it immediately after a meal, as it creates an enveloping protective film. According to the instructions, "Gaviscon" during pregnancy in the form of a suspension should be taken 10-20 ml, but not more than 80 ml per day. The drug should be taken after each meal and at bedtime. Such a scheme will not only effectively get rid of heartburn at the moment, but also prevent its recurrence. In this case, it is imperative to strictly adhere to the dosage and course of treatment prescribed by the doctor.
The course of therapy should be no more than 7 days. Prolonged use of this drug requires monitoring of the functioning of the heart and kidneys.
Side effects and contraindications
Despite the proven safety of the drug "Gaviscon", it is not recommended for use in case of hypersensitivity to the main component. During pregnancy, a woman becomes especially sensitive, which is why medication treatment can provoke an allergy. If, after taking the drug, rashes, itching, and many other signs of an allergic reaction appear, then you need to cancel it and consult a doctor to prescribe an analogue. In addition, among the main contraindications, it is necessary to highlight such as:
- violation of the kidneys;
- diseases of the cardiovascular system;
- individual intolerance to individual components of the drug.
The composition of the preparation "Gaviscon" includes calcium, which is why, in the presence of stones or sand in the kidneys, the use of this remedy can only aggravate the course of urolithiasis. In such cases, doctors recommend choosing analogues with other active ingredients. If a pregnant woman has cardiovascular diseases, then the use of Gaviscon can only aggravate their course.
There are no side effects with this drug, but occasional allergies or skin rashes may occur. If they occur, you should immediately stop taking the drug.
Overdose and interaction with other drugs
According to the instructions for use, with an overdose of Gaviscon, the patient may experience bloating. The problem can be solved by symptomatic treatment.
This drug is very popular among pregnant women and young mothers, as it is completely safe for the fetus and infant. It can be used along with other medicines. However, it is worth noting that at least 2 hours should elapse between taking an antacid and another drug. Particular attention should be paid to histamine receptor blockers and antibiotics.
It is worth noting that reviews regarding the use of the drug "Gaviscon" do not always coincide with the opinion of experts. Many doctors believe that it is not necessary to use it constantly during pregnancy.
According to a survey among pregnant women, the drug "Gaviscon" acts very quickly, neutralizing heartburn. This happens due to the fact that when the drug enters the stomach, the components contained in it almost instantly interact with gastric juice. Thus, they help eliminate burning sensation and carefully protect the walls of the esophagus.
In addition, doctors say that if a woman has kidney problems or heart failure, then you must definitely follow a special diet, and also strictly follow the dosage selected by the doctor. It is also required to control the course of therapy for other diseases that are associated with metabolic disorders.
Drug analogues
To date, there is no complete analogue of the drug "Gaviscon", however, there is a wide variety of medicines created on the basis of other active ingredients. These drugs can also be used during pregnancy after consulting a doctor.
Among the analogues, it is necessary to highlight the drug "Maalox", which is available in the form of chewable lozenges, as well as suspensions. Among the contraindications can be noted hypersensitivity to its constituent components, renal failure. This drug is prescribed only if the potential benefit to normalize the mother's well-being significantly outweighs the possible risk to the fetus.
In addition, another good analogue is the drug "Rennie", which is presented in the form of tablets for chewing. Among the contraindications of this drug, it is necessary to highlight severe renal failure, an increased content of calcium and phosphorus in the body. This drug is not dangerous to the fetus, if you strictly follow the dosage and do not exceed it.
Any analogue of the drug should be selected with the attending doctor, and not done on your own.
Acesulfame potassium, magnesium stearate, mint or lemon flavor.
IN Gaviscon Double Action the dose of the main substances is twice as high - sodium bicarbonate contains 267 mg, calcium carbonate - 160 mg.
Release form
As chewable tablets white or cream colors, 8 pieces in a blister.
This form of the drug, like candles, is not available.
pharmachologic effect
Gaviscon is antacid . In the acidic environment of the stomach, it turns into alginate gel , which has a pH value of zero. At the same time, a protective layer is formed on the gastric mucosa, which does not allow the development gastroesophageal reflux . In case of reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus, the gel protects the esophageal mucosa from irritation.
Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics
The absorption of the drug into the systemic circulation does not affect the pharmacodynamics.
Indications for use
What is Gaviscon used for?
The drug is intended to eliminate:
- symptoms that occur when the acidity of the stomach increases and reflux of contents into the esophagus ( belching sour , heaviness in the stomach , including those used in the period );
- heaviness in the stomach;
- discomfort after eating.
Contraindications
- individual intolerance;
- children under 12 years of age.
Side effects
Allergic reactions.
Exceeding therapeutic doses of calcium carbonate causes, rebound syndrome , hypercalcemia .
Instructions for use Gaviscon (Method and dosage)
About how to take Gaviscon, instructions for use explain in detail: adults and children over 12 years of age take the tablets orally, chewed well, after meals or, if necessary, at bedtime in a dose of 2 to 4 pieces.
In case of use Gaviscon Double Action, the maximum dose that can be taken per day is 16 tablets.
Overdose
There is bloating. Symptomatic therapy is used as treatment.
Interaction
If necessary, treatment with other drugs, the interval between taking with Gaviscon Dual Action must be at least two hours.
Terms of sale
Without recipe.
Storage conditions
Temperature regime 15-30°C, away from children.
Best before date
special instructions
If a low-salt diet is necessary, the sodium content of the preparation must be taken into account.
In patients with a tendency to form calcium, with nephrocalcinosis , hypercalcemia use with caution, due to the content of calcium carbonate in the composition.
Do not administer to patients with phenylketonuria , since it contains aspartame .
From what pills can lose their effectiveness? At low stomach acid the effect of the drug is reduced.
If the condition does not improve within 1 week of taking Gaviscon, a doctor should be consulted.
It should be borne in mind that tablets can mask signs of serious lesions of the gastrointestinal tract.
children
For children under 12 years of age, use only as directed by a doctor.
During pregnancy and lactation
Gaviscon is approved for use, as the available observations have shown no adverse effects.
Reviews about Gaviscon
There are reviews on the forums about Gaviscon as an effective medicine for eliminating heaviness in the stomach after eating, removing heartburn . The tablets have a pleasant taste, but many people notice that the drug sticks strongly to the teeth, and this causes some discomfort. Also, the disadvantages include high cost, since to eliminate heartburn you have to take 4 tablets at once.
There are a small number of reviews with complaints about the side effect in the form nausea .
Gaviscon is also widely used during pregnancy. Very often, pregnant women are interested in reviews about candles. Therefore, you need to pay attention that this form of release does not exist. Apparently confused with suppositories, which are used as an anti-inflammatory drug in gynecology.
As for Gaviscon, reviews during pregnancy in large numbers are only positive and speak of the drug as a good tool to remove bitterness And heartburn , so often occurring in this condition. Due to this, Gaviscon has been widely used in pregnant women.
Gaviscon price, where to buy
The cost ranges from 104 - 147 rubles. for 16 tablets up to 213 rubles. for a pack of 32. In Moscow, the price of Gaviscon for 32 pcs. is 170 rubles.
heartburn pills Gaviscon Dual Action in Moscow cost 146 rubles. 16 tablets.
- Internet pharmacies in Russia Russia
- Internet pharmacies of Kazakhstan Kazakhstan
ZdravCity
Gaviscon Susp. mint 300ml
Gaviscon tab. zhev. No. 12 (mint)
Gaviscon double action tab. zhev. No. 12 (mint)Reckitt Benckiser Healthcare Limited
Gaviscon double action susp. for internal approx. (mint) Pack. 10ml №4Reckitt Benckiser Healthcare Limited
Gaviscon Susp. mint 150ml n1Reckitt Benckiser Healthcare (UK) Limited
Pharmacy Dialog
Gaviscon (double action suspension (mint) vial 150ml)
Heartburn is probably one of those ailments that can accompany a pregnant woman throughout the entire gestation period. And fortunately, it does not affect the development of the fetus in any way, so if heartburn does not cause severe discomfort, then a woman can endure this condition without taking any medication. But there are times when the "fire" in the chest is simply unbearable to endure, in this case it is better to resort to the help of medications. This raises the question of the safety and efficacy of drugs.
Gaviscon as a drug
Gaviscon is a foreign local antacid produced by a British pharmaceutical company. The modern market offers several types and forms of release of this drug:
- Gaviscon;
- Gaviscon Dual Action;
All types of Gaviscon are over-the-counter drugs, therefore they are freely dispensed from pharmacies.
The antacid effect of the drug is achieved due to the active action of the following components that make up Gaviscon:
- sodium alginate, which is a gel made from natural raw materials, which covers the mucous membranes of the organs of the gastrointestinal tract, which protects the esophagus from the "burning" effect of hydrochloric acid of the stomach;
- sodium bicarbonate, which is a salt of carbonic acid that neutralizes the acidity of gastric juice;
- calcium bicarbonate, which helps maintain acid-base balance.
Due to the fact that this drug does not contain magnesium and aluminum salts, which are present in almost all antacids, Gaviscon does not disrupt the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, which means it does not cause constipation, which already accompanies a woman while carrying a baby. Moreover, the drug does not wash out vitamins and other beneficial substances from the body.
According to the official instructions, all types of drugs are approved for use during pregnancy. This is primarily due to the fact that Gaviscon is not absorbed into the general bloodstream, therefore, in no way can harm the baby.
Table: types and dosage forms of Gaviscon
| Name of the medicinal product | Release form | Active substance | Can be used during gestation | |
| Gaviscon |
| 10 ml suspension contains:
| 1 tablet contains:
| It is possible to use the drug in all trimesters of gestation as directed by a doctor. But usually a suspension is preferred, since it is more convenient to take it with vomiting and toxicosis than tablets. |
| Gaviscon Dual Action |
| 10 ml suspension contains:
| 1 tablet of the drug contains:
| Gaviscon Double Action is an improved version of Hexicon, which contains a high concentration of calcium carbonate, which provides a sufficiently long therapeutic effect that helps maintain normal acid-base balance. Both suspension and tablets can be used in all trimesters of gestation as prescribed by a doctor. |
|
| This type of Gaviscon is available only in the form of a suspension that contains a double dose of sodium alginate, which protects the mucous walls of the esophagus from the acidic contents of the stomach with double efficiency. Moreover, the composition of the suspension does not include sodium bicarbonate, which, with prolonged use, can adversely affect the development of pregnancy and the fetus. In this regard, this type of Gaviscon is preferred for long-term therapy. | ||
Gaviscon is one of the few drugs whose effects have been studied in more than 200 pregnant women. These studies were conducted by foreign pharmacists. According to the results, no negative effects were identified.
Photo gallery: types of drug release
Gaviscon Dual Action - OTC drug Gaviscon can be taken in all trimesters of pregnancy Gaviscon Forte is available only in the form of a suspension 
Suspension in sachets - the most convenient form for taking the drug
Indications for the use of this drug during gestation
Heartburn or "fire" in the sternum, as it is often called, is accompanied by a sharp burning feeling in the chest area, as well as a sour taste in the mouth. This disease occurs in almost 70% of the population, but when it comes to pregnant women, the risk of problems in the gastrointestinal tract increases significantly. This is due to two reasons:
- increased concentration of prolactin, the amount of which begins to increase from the moment of fertilization of the egg. This hormone has a relaxing effect not only on the uterus, but also on all other organs, including the gastrointestinal tract. Because of this, the valve, which is located between the stomach and esophagus, loses its ability to function normally. Therefore, stomach acid is pushed back into the esophagus, thereby causing a burning sensation behind the sternum - a so-called burn of the walls of the esophagus occurs, the mucous membranes of which are not protected by a special layer, like the stomach. Therefore, it is not surprising that heartburn can accompany the expectant mother for all nine months of gestation;
- increased pressure on the internal organs from the growing uterus and fetus, including the digestive tract. This is especially true for the second and third trimesters, when the fetus begins to grow and develop rapidly. In addition, after the first trimester, when the uterus becomes small in the pelvic area, it goes into the abdominal cavity;
- breech presentation of the baby at the end of pregnancy a few weeks before delivery, when the fetus presses on the stomach with its head.
Therefore, heartburn is one of the common reasons for the appointment of Gaviscon during gestation.
Heartburn - an indication for the use of Gaviscon
Other indications for the use of this medication:
- belching;
- feeling of discomfort and heaviness in the digestive tract.
Gaviscon can be prescribed both as an independent drug and in complex therapy in the treatment of gastritis, ulcers and other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
I have never experienced heartburn before pregnancy. But at the 5th month of pregnancy, after eating a large amount of tangerines, she felt a burning sensation in her chest and sour belching. It wasn't hard to figure out what it might be. I immediately drank a glass of boiled milk and after a while the ailment receded. Fortunately, this was a one-time manifestation, so I did not have to turn to a doctor for help, and even more so to take medications. After this incident, I simply limited myself to fried, salty, sour and spicy foods. I stopped consuming large amounts of chocolate and flour products. Eat in small portions, chewing food thoroughly.
Contraindications and possible side effects
Since Gaviscon is a topical drug, the range of contraindications is significantly reduced. The only contraindication to its use is the tendency to allergic reactions in case of intolerance to the constituent components of this drug.
As for side effects, they are extremely rare. And they appear in the form of rashes and itching of the skin, as well as bronchospasm and anaphylactic reactions.
If the prescribed dosage is not observed and a large amount of the drug is taken, flatulence and bloating are observed. Treatment is symptomatic.
At the first sign of side effects and overdose, you should stop taking the drug and seek medical advice.
Interaction of Gaviscon with other medicines
Rules for the use of the drug
It should be noted right away that no one has the right to independently prescribe treatment for himself, especially when it comes to pregnant women. We should not take on the role of doctors. Therefore, with unbearable heartburn, it is urgent to contact a specialist who will prescribe a reasonable treatment, consisting of the right medication, dosage and duration of therapy.
Moreover, it should be noted that for the treatment of heartburn, a single use of Gaviscon is sufficient, the therapeutic effect of which lasts for 24 hours. In the absence of irritating factors, heartburn may no longer bother.
The most convenient dosage form for pregnant women is a suspension in sachets. It can be taken both at home and in public places. Before using it, it is necessary to thoroughly knead the sachet with your fingers to mix all the components, open the package and drink the contents. When using a suspension in a large vial, you must use a measuring spoon.
Tablets must be carefully chewed, which is not always suitable for women in position due to toxicosis and vomiting.
Gaviscon should be taken 20 minutes after a meal. With constant unbearable heartburn, the number of tablets drunk per day should not exceed 8 pieces, if we talk about the suspension, then no more than 40 ml.
In order to make sure that there are no allergic reactions to the medication, doctors recommend using only a quarter of the prescribed dose on the first day of admission. If after a day no side effects are observed, you can continue taking Gaviscon.
Generic Gaviscon
As a rule, all antacids include salts of magnesium, potassium, aluminum, but Gaviscon differs from all other medicines in this group by the presence of one of the active substances - sodium alginate, which is not part of any of its other "brothers". Therefore, Gaviscon does not have structural generics, but at the same time, the pharmaceutical market offers a wide variety of medicines similar to it in terms of the effect on the body.
The functional analogues of Gaviscon include:
- Maalox;
- Gastal;
- Phosphalugel;
- Almagel.
All these drugs belong to the group of antacids, but they are not always interchangeable drugs, especially when it comes to gestation. Therefore, you can not independently decide on the use of any of them.
Table: Gaviscon functional generics
| Name of medication | Active ingredients | Release form | Indications for use. Possibility of use by pregnant women | Contraindications | Side effects |
| Rennie |
| chewable tablets |
You can use the tablets throughout your pregnancy as directed by your doctor. |
| Side effects from taking this drug are rare.
|
| Phosphalugel |
| Gel in sachets of 16 grams |
You can take the gel during gestation only as directed by a specialist. |
| With prolonged use, beriberi may develop. There are also cases of constipation. |
| Maalox | The suspension consists of:
The composition of the tablets includes:
|
|
Studies to identify the negative effects of the drug on the fetus have not been conducted. In this regard, Maalox must be taken under the strict supervision of a gynecologist. It is forbidden to use the drug in large quantities for a long time. |
|
|
| Almagel |
| Suspension in vial |
|
|
|
Photo gallery: Gaviscon analogues
Rennie's tablets are dispensed without a doctor's prescription Phosphalugel can be used outside the home due to a one-time convenient package Almagel can be used in all three trimesters of gestation as prescribed by a doctor Maalox is an effective antacid that is allowed during pregnancy
Reviews of women about the use of Gaviscon during pregnancy
Having studied the forums, I came to the conclusion that the opinions of young mothers on the use as a drug in the fight against heartburn during pregnancy are quite contradictory. Moreover, many expectant mothers try to avoid any effect of medicines on the body at all, therefore they prefer the methods and means of alternative medicine. Among those who used Gaviscon while carrying a baby, there were both satisfied and dissatisfied with its effectiveness. Many mothers note an unpleasant aftertaste after taking the tablet form of this drug, as well as the lack of a therapeutic result after taking both tablets and syrup. But still, more than half of the beautiful population of the country found in this drug the only salvation from heartburn, both during pregnancy and after it. This contradiction of opinions once again proves that the body of each person is individual, which means that it reacts differently to various drugs.
As in the first pregnancy, and now I suffer from heartburn from the very beginning of pregnancy, although I don’t have it in a non-pregnant state. Previously, Gaviscon chewable tablets helped, but their taste was disgusting, I tried to chew them as quickly as possible. Now I don’t even know what to take, as I remember this taste of Gaviscon it starts to make me sick, besides, then I didn’t have toxicosis, but this time I have, I’m afraid that I won’t be able to chew them at all.
Gulnaz
https://www.babyblog.ru/theme/geviskon-pri-pregnancy
Gaviscon during pregnancy is possible. Really helps a lot. I can't live a day without him..
Sunny is the happiest
https://deti.mail.ru/forum/v_ozhidanii_chuda/beremennost/sos_izzhoga_moja_ten/
Gaviscon did not help me. Nothing else helped me.
https://www.u-mama.ru/forum/waiting-baby/pregnancy-and-childbirth/435226/
I took Gaviscon (liquid) - it helped me very well with heartburn. It is really allowed for pregnant women, unlike the same Maalox.
Natella14
https://eva.ru/eva-life/messages-2717358.htm
Even despite the large number of positive reviews on the use of Gaviscon by pregnant women, it is necessary to use the drug only after consulting a specialist who will indicate not only the exact dosage, but the form and type of release.
During pregnancy, a woman often encounters problems with the gastrointestinal tract. Doctors do not recommend enduring heartburn, nausea and other unpleasant symptoms. With the first manifestations of discomfort, you need to seek advice from a specialist who will conduct an examination and select an effective treatment regimen. To eliminate burning and pain, Gaviscon is often prescribed. How to take it correctly and does it have a negative effect on the development of the fetus?
Composition and action of the drug
Gaviscon is an antacid drug that reduces the level of acidity of gastric juice, eliminates heartburn and a feeling of heaviness in the stomach. It begins to act 3 minutes after ingestion, and the effect of its use lasts for 4 hours.
The drug can be bought in several forms for ease of administration:
- chewable tablets;
- suspension in a vial;
- suspension in a sachet.
They differ in composition and amount of active substance.
It should be noted that Gaviscon is not available in the form of suppositories.
Forms of release of the drug Gaviscon - photo gallery
Heartburn remedy in the form of suspension Gaviscon forte 
Gaviscon heartburn pills 
Special formulation for pregnant women Gaviscon Forte Preparation for relief of heartburn and stomach discomfort Gaviscon Dual Action
Classic Gaviscon, Forte and Double action: comparative characteristics - table
| Name | Release form | Active substance | Distinctive features |
|
| It has a pleasant minty taste. When it enters the stomach, it forms a special protective barrier, preventing hydrochloric acid from affecting the esophagus. | |
| Gaviscon double action |
| Not only relieves the unpleasant symptoms of heartburn, but also improves digestion by neutralizing excess hydrochloric acid in the stomach. | |
| Gaviscon forte | oral suspension |
| It works in the same way as the classic drug, but the composition contains twice as much active ingredient (sodium alginate). |
| Gaviscon forte for pregnant women | oral suspension in sachets | It has a convenient form of release - a sachet with a suspension, designed for a single dose. |
Prescribing the drug in the early and late periods
Gaviscon acts locally and is not absorbed into the systemic circulation, so it can be used even in the first trimester of pregnancy without the risk of a negative impact on the development of the child. The safety of the drug has been confirmed by clinical trials in which several hundred expectant mothers took part. When summing up the results of the studies, no toxic effects of the drug on the fetus in the womb and negative consequences for the newborn baby were found.
Indications for appointment according to the instructions
Digestive problems and the occurrence of discomfort in the gastrointestinal tract during pregnancy appear due to a number of changes.
- From the first days of conception, a woman's body prepares for bearing a baby. The production of the hormone progesterone begins in an increased amount. It has a relaxing effect on the muscles of the uterus, preventing miscarriage, and at a later date - premature birth. However, its influence extends to other muscle tissues, including the esophageal sphincter, which, when closed, prevents the release of contents from the stomach. That is why the expectant mother may experience symptoms of heartburn and pain in the epigastric region (upper abdomen).
- In later pregnancy, the enlarged uterus compresses the organs of the digestive system. More than 75% of women experience burning, discomfort, pain and burping with food during the second and third trimesters.
Doctors often prescribe Gaviscon in the following cases:
- dyspeptic disorders such as heartburn, sour belching, belching with food, nausea after eating, pain in the epigastric region;
- a feeling of heaviness in the stomach that occurs after eating;
- reflux esophagitis - inflammation of the mucous membrane caused by the constant reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus.
According to the instructions, Gaviscon is allowed to use throughout pregnancy. Before deciding to take a drug, you need to consult a doctor. The question of in what form to buy the drug should also be discussed with the doctor.
In some cases, a woman is not able to drink the suspension, she has a gag reflex. Then the specialist recommends mint chewable tablets. With severe heartburn and indigestion, Gaviscon double action can be used. But most often, expectant mothers prefer a special form of release of the drug - a suspension in a sachet. It has its own advantages:
- convenient to always carry with you and take in case of unpleasant symptoms;
- it is impossible to overdose due to the exact amount of the drug, calculated for one application;
- does not contain carbohydrates, so there is no effect on the weight of the expectant mother.
Features of the treatment of heartburn in pregnant women - video
Features of the use of suspension and tablets
According to the instructions, Gaviscon tablets are taken in several pieces up to 4 times a day. They need to be chewed well in the oral cavity after eating and additionally before going to bed. During the period of bearing a baby, it is recommended to start with minimal doses and use the drug only to eliminate unpleasant symptoms, and not for prevention.
The dosage and maximum time for taking Gaviscon is determined only by the doctor, depending on the individual course of pregnancy.
The drug can be taken continuously for no more than seven days. If the symptoms do not go away and relief does not occur, you should consult your doctor.
Contraindications and side effects
Gaviscon should not be taken if:
- individual sensitivity to the components of the drug;
- phenylketonuria - a hereditary disease in which the metabolism of amino acids is disturbed (for a drug in the form of tablets).
While taking the drug, side effects are possible, which are expressed as:
- allergic reactions (urticaria, anaphylactic shock);
- bronchospasm (in very rare cases).
In the event of the above or other negative reactions not described in the instructions, it is necessary to stop using the drug and consult a doctor.
It is worth noting that Gaviscon does not affect intestinal motility, therefore it does not cause constipation.
What can replace Gaviscon during pregnancy
If there are contraindications to the use of Gaviscon or if unwanted side effects occur, the doctor will select another medicine to eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of heartburn and digestive problems. It does not have complete analogues, but most often experts prescribe:
- Rennie is a tablet that can be used throughout pregnancy, starting from the early stages, because they do not adversely affect the development of the fetus, are not addictive in women and do not contain harmful components;
- Phosphalugel - an aluminum-based antacid drug used to combat the symptoms of heartburn, and also recommended for peptic ulcers of the gastric mucosa to eliminate pain and protect affected areas from the action of hydrochloric acid;
- Gastal is an aluminum-based antacid in the form of tablets, which is used only after consulting a doctor once or periodically, but not for a long time.
Drugs allowed during pregnancy - photo gallery
Comparative characteristics of drugs for heartburn - table
| Name | Release form | Active substance | Contraindications | Use during pregnancy |
| Gastal | lozenges with mint and cherry flavor |
|
| The drug is recommended to be used with caution during pregnancy. When prescribing, the doctor must balance the benefits for the mother and the risk for the child. |
| Phosphalugel | oral gel | aluminum phosphate |
| It is allowed to take the drug in therapeutic doses during pregnancy. |
| Rennie | lozenges in various flavors |
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