Products
Sodium alginate, along with sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate, is commercially available as chewable tablets and as a suspension (Gaviscon). It was approved in many countries in 2013.
Structure and properties
Sodium alginate is mainly composed of the sodium salt of alginic acid. Alginic acid is a mixture of polyuronic acids with alternating proportions of D-mannuronic acid and L-guluronic acid and is derived from brown algae. Sodium alginate exists as a white to pale yellowish-brown powder that is slowly soluble in water to form a viscous, colloidal solution.
Effects
Sodium alginate (ATC A02AX) forms a gel foam after ingestion that floats on the stomach contents like a raft, forming a physical barrier (alginate raft). This mechanically prevents acid regurgitation. Sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate are excipients for the formation of the foam, while also acting as antacids to neutralize stomach acid.
Indications
- For symptomatic treatment of gastric burning and acid regurgitation.
- Sodium alginate is also a well-known pharmaceutical excipient (eg disintegrant) and is also used in food technology (E 401).
Dosage
According to the professional information. Medicines are taken up to four times a day after meals and before bedtime.
Contraindications
Sodium alginate is contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity. For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Other drugs should be taken two hours apart because their absorption may be reduced if administered concomitantly.
Adverse effects
Very rarely, hypersensitivity reactions have been reported.
