How And When To Take Gaviscon

Dosage and how to take Gaviscon

Always follow the instructions that come with the Gaviscon, or the advice from your doctor.

Dosage

Your dose of Gaviscon depends on the type you're taking. If you are 12 years and over, your dose is:

• 10 to 20ml after meals and at bedtime, up to 4 times a day
• 10ml, four times a day if you're taking Gaviscon Advance
• 2 to 4 tablets, up to 4 times a day

If you're giving Gaviscon to a child under 12 years, follow your doctor's advice.

If you buy Gaviscon from a shop or pharmacy, always check and follow the packet's information. If Gaviscon has been prescribed by your doctor, take it as they tell you to.

How to take it

If you get occasional mild heartburn or indigestion, only take Gaviscon when you need it.

If you often have heartburn or indigestion, you can take Gaviscon up to 4 times a day.

The best time to take it is after meals and at bedtime, whether you have symptoms or not. This is because pain and discomfort is usually worse at this time.

If you're taking tablets, chew them and do not swallow them whole. The liquid will come with a plastic spoon to help you measure your dose. If you do not have a plastic spoon, ask a pharmacist for one. Do not use a kitchen spoon as it will not measure the right amount.

If you've been prescribed Gaviscon powder for a baby or child under 2, mix it with cool, boiled water or formula milk if bottle feeding.

How long to take it for

If you've been taking Gaviscon for more than 7 days and you're still feeling uncomfortable or in pain, talk to your doctor.

If you've taken Gaviscon regularly for a long time, talk to your doctor before you stop taking it. Stopping suddenly may cause your symptoms to come back.

If you forget to take it

If you usually take Gaviscon regularly but forget to take a dose, leave out the missed dose and take your next dose at the usual time.

Do not take 2 doses to make up for a missed dose.

If you forget doses often, it may help to set an alarm to remind you. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on other ways to help you remember to take your medicine.

If you take too much

If you take more than your usual dose of Gaviscon, it may cause side effects such as wind and bloating (when your stomach feels tight and full of gas). This is unlikely to cause you any harm. If you're worried, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

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