Alka-Seltzer

(aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate)

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3.9/ 5 average rating with 1055 reviewsforAlka-Seltzer
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Relieves symptoms of indigestion and pain

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Our bottom line

Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) provides quick relief for heartburn, upset stomach, headaches, and general pain. However, you have to take it a few times a day to continue getting relief of your symptoms.

Quick facts about Alka-Seltzer
  • Drug class: Gastrointestinal
  • Rx status: Over-the-counter
  • Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate)

Upsides

  • Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) is a great option if you have an upset stomach and a headache or body aches at the same time.
  • Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) works quickly to relieve symptoms.
  • Available over the counter without a prescription.
  • Also, available as generic and is fairly cheap.
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What to expect from Alka-Seltzer, on one page

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People’s experience with Alka-Seltzer

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Downsides

  • The effects of this medication don't last very long. Other medicines, like Zantac (H2 blockers) and omeprazole (proton pump inhibitors), work better and last longer.
  • Because this medicine contains aspirin, it raises the risk of bleeding, especially if you take any other blood thinning medicines.
  • People who are allergic to aspirin can't use this medication.
  • May not like the taste or fizz.
  • Kids or teenagers should not use Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) unless instructed by a doctor.
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How it works

Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) contains sodium bicarbonate which is an antacid that lowers stomach acid, and aspirin which is a pain reliever that lowers pain and inflammation.

Quick facts about Alka-Seltzer
  • Drug class: Gastrointestinal
  • Rx status: Over-the-counter
  • Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate)

Used for

Dosage forms

  • Effervescent tablet
People’s experience with Alka-Seltzer

1055reviews so far. What do you think?

What to expect when you take Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) for Heartburn

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  • Effectiveness
  • Full effects
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  • Possible side effects
  • Upset stomach
  • Belching
  • Hiccups
  • Stomach ulcers
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Side effect rates for Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate)

Risks and Warnings for Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate)

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    • Higher risk if:
    • › Not reading the drug label

    There are many different over the counter medicines with the brand name Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate). Each one may contain different active ingredients. Be sure to read the labels carefully to understand what kind of medicine you have and what the correct dose should be. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Common concerns from people taking Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate)

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Kidneys and liver
  • If you have kidney or hyperparathyroid disease, levels of Alka-Seltzer (aspirin / citric acid / sodium bicarbonate) build up in your blood. This can cause toxic levels of sodium in your body. This is more likely to happen if you have severe kidney disease or are on dialysis.