Alka-Seltzer (Acetylsalicylic acid/Citric acid/Sodium bicarbonate) is an over-the-counter medication used to relieve symptoms of excess stomach acid like heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach when accompanied by headache or body ache. Without treatment, the extra gastric acid can lead to peptic ulcers in the stomach and intestine. The drug also treats upset stomachs with headaches from overindulgence in food or drink. Alka-Seltzer also treats headaches, body aches, and pain alone. The active ingredients in Alka-Seltzer are acetylsalicylic acid, citric acid, and sodium bicarbonate. Acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin) belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It works by blocking proteins that cause inflammation in the body to relieve pain and swelling. Citric acid and sodium bicarbonate are antacids. They work by neutralizing the acid in the stomach to relieve indigestion and upset stomach.
Manufacturer Information
We currently offer the brand Alka-Seltzer from Canada manufactured by Bayer in the strength of 325mg/1000mg/1700mg and 325mg/1000mg/1916mg effervescent tablets. The generic Acetylsalicylic acid/citric acid/sodium bicarbonate is not available.
Get medical help immediately if you have any of these signs or an allergic reaction while taking Alka-Seltzer. The most common side effects of Alka-Seltzer may include the following:
• Constipation;
• Gas;
• Heartburn;
• Increased thirst;
• Mild stomach pain;
• Vomiting
Contact your doctor right away if you have any of the severe side effects, including:
• Bloody urine;
• Confusion;
• Dizziness;
• Fast breathing;
• Kidney problems;
• Ringing in the ears;
• Runny nose;
• Stomach bleeding;
• Swallowing difficulties;
• Swelling of eyelids, face, or lips;
• Unexplained fever
These are not all of the side effects of Alka-Seltzer. Always contact your doctor if you notice any unusual symptoms.
You should not use Alka-Seltzer if you are allergic to acetylsalicylic acid, citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, or any ingredient in Alka-Seltzer. Before you start using this medication, tell your doctor about your medical history, especially if you:
• Are 60 years or older;
• Are about to have surgery;
• Are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed;
• Are pregnant or planning to be pregnant;
• Have a history of gastrointestinal disorders;
• Have a history of hypersensitivity reactions induced by pain relief medicines;
• Have asthma or chest tightness;
• Have bleeding disorders;
• Have severe heart problems;
• Have severe kidney or liver problems;
• Have stomach ulcer
Tell your doctor about all your medications, including prescription, OTC, herbal supplements, and vitamins. There may be drug interactions between Alka-Seltzer and other medicines for treating high blood pressure, gout, epilepsy, and high blood sugar. Avoid warfarin, methotrexate, fluoxetine, or corticosteroids with Alka-Seltzer. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is important not to use aspirin in your third trimester unless your doctor recommends it. Aspirin may harm the fetus or cause birth complications. Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed. Sodium bicarbonate may pose minimal risk to a nursing baby. Use Alka-Seltzer precisely as prescribed by your doctor. Do not swallow the tablets. Dissolve it in water before taking it. Place the tablets needed for one dose in a glass, then add a half-glass of water. Check if the tablets have entirely dissolved before drinking all of the liquid. You may drink the liquid while it is still fizzing or after it stops. Add a little more water to the glass and drink to ensure you get the full dose of the medicine. Do not take Alka-Seltzer for more than three days in a row. Inform your doctor if your symptoms do not improve. Avoid taking alcohol or tobacco while using Alka-Seltzer. Alcohol may increase the side effects of the drug. Store this medicine in a closed container at room temperature. Keep away from heat, moisture, and light.
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