Classes
DEA Class; OTC
Common Brand Names; Alka Seltzer Original
Antacid
Description
Aspirin irreversibly blocks the COX pathway; citric acid and sodium bicarbonate neutralize the stomach acid.
Is used for the relief of heartburn, acid indigestion, upset stomach, as well as headache, body aches, and pain alone.
Aspirin may cause stomach bleeding.
Uses/Indications
Indicated for heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach when accompanied with headache or body aches.
Contraindications
Hypocalcemia, hypochloremia, respiratory alkalosis
Hypersensitivity to aspirin or any component
Immediately before or after heart surgery
Concomitant administration with prescription medication for diabetes, gout, or arthritis
Adverse Effects
Flatulence
Rebound hyperacidity
Stomach cramps
Vomiting
Warnings
Children and teenagers who have or are recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms should not use this product; when using this product, if changes in behavior with nausea and vomiting occur, consult a doctor because these symptoms could be an early sign of Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious illness
Aspirin may cause severe allergic reactions, including facial swelling, shock, asthma (wheezing), or hives
NSAIDs may cause stomach bleeding; risk of bleeding increases with presence of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems, age 60 or older, take higher dose or take for longer time than directed, having 3 or more alcoholic drinks every day while using this product, taking blood thinner or steroid drug
Use caution and ask a healthcare practitioner if history of stomach aches, including heartburn, experiencing high blood pressure, liver cirrhosis, heart disease, or kidney disease, currently taking a diuretic, history of or currently experiencing asthma, on a sodium restriction diet
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pregnancy; Ask a healthcare professional; important not to use aspirin during the last 3 months of pregnancy unless prescribed by a physician; may cause complications in the unborn child or during delivery
Lactation; Ask a healthcare professional
Maximum Dosage
Adults
18 to 59 years: Aspirin 3.5 grams/day PO (Alka-Seltzer or equivalent: Regular Strength 8 tablets/day PO; Extra Strength 7 tablets/day PO)
60 years and older: Aspirin 1.5 grams/day PO (Alka-Seltzer or equivalent: Regular Strength 4 tablets/day PO; Extra Strength 3 tablets/day PO)
Geriatric
Aspirin 1.5 grams/day PO (Alka-Seltzer or equivalent: Regular Strength 4 tablets/day PO; Extra Strength 3 tablets/day PO)
Adolescents
Aspirin 3.5 grams/day PO (Alka-Seltzer or equivalent: Regular Strength 8 tablets/day PO; Extra Strength 7 tablets/day PO)
Children
12 years: Aspirin 3.5 grams/day PO (Alka-Seltzer or equivalent: Regular Strength 8 tablets/day PO; Extra Strength 7 tablets/day PO)
1 to 11 years: Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Infants
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
Neonates
Safety and efficacy have not been established.
How supplied
Effervescent Tablet
325mg/1000mg/1916mg