Quick answer: Gaviscon syrup is an over-the-counter liquid for heartburn, acid reflux and indigestion. It contains an alginate that forms a protective layer on top of stomach contents, plus an antacid that neutralises extra acid. Adults and children aged 12 and over usually take it after meals and at bedtime, up to 4 times a day, following the pack label. If you still need it after 7 days, see a doctor.
Urdu / Roman Urdu mein jawab: Gaviscon syrup seene ki jalan (heartburn), acid reflux aur badhazmi ke liye hai. Yeh medy ke upar ek hifazati tah bana deta hai jo acid ko khane ki nali mein wapas chadhne se rokti hai. Aam taur par yeh khane ke baad aur sone se pehle li jati hai. 12 saal se kam umar ke bachon ko sirf doctor ke mashwaray se dein, aur 7 din se zyada zaroorat pade to doctor se milein.
Gaviscon Syrup at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Medicine type | Alginate-antacid (reflux relief) |
| Main active ingredients | Sodium alginate with sodium bicarbonate and/or calcium carbonate (Gaviscon Advance uses potassium bicarbonate) |
| Used for | Heartburn, acid reflux, indigestion linked to reflux |
| Available as | Liquid (syrup), chewable tablets, sachets (varies by country) |
| Usual adult timing | After meals and at bedtime |
| Typical adult liquid dose | 10 to 20 ml, up to 4 times daily (Advance: smaller volume, see dose section) |
| Children under 12 | Only on a doctor’s advice |
| Pregnancy / breastfeeding | Generally considered acceptable when needed (NHS, UK prescribing information) |
| Maker | Reckitt |
| Legal status in most markets | Over-the-counter |
Table of contents
- What is Gaviscon syrup?
- How does it work?
- Gaviscon syrup uses
- Gaviscon syrup uses in Urdu
- Types of Gaviscon available
- Dose and how to take it
- Gaviscon syrup price in Pakistan
- Side effects of Gaviscon
- Who should be careful?
- Interactions with other medicines
- Gaviscon for bloating, gas and stomach pain
- Gaviscon vs other stomach syrups in Pakistan
- Lifestyle tips that help
- When to see a doctor
- Storage, missed dose and overdose
- FAQs
1. What Is Gaviscon Syrup?
Gaviscon syrup is a liquid medicine made by Reckitt for acid-related discomfort. People search for it as “Gaviscon liquid”, “Gaviscon syrup”, “stomach syrup” or “acidity syrup”, but all of these refer to the same type of product: an alginate-antacid suspension that you swallow.
Unlike a simple antacid, it is built for reflux. Reflux happens when stomach contents travel back up toward the food pipe, which causes burning in the chest and a sour taste. Gaviscon is aimed at that backward movement.
It is sold without a prescription in most countries, including Pakistan, but it still carries limits on age, duration and certain health conditions (covered below).
2. How Does Gaviscon Syrup Work?
Gaviscon does two jobs at once:
- It forms a raft. When the alginate meets stomach acid, it turns into a gel-like layer that floats on top of the stomach contents. This layer helps block acid from rising into the food pipe.
- It neutralises extra acid. The antacid part (bicarbonate or calcium carbonate) reduces acidity and eases the burning feeling.
Relief usually starts soon after a dose. The effect is temporary, so the product treats symptoms and does not cure the cause of reflux.
3. Gaviscon Syrup Uses
Gaviscon syrup is used for:
- Heartburn: burning pain behind the breastbone, often after meals.
- Acid reflux: sour or bitter fluid coming up into the throat (acid regurgitation).
- Indigestion linked to reflux: fullness, discomfort and upper stomach burning after eating.
- Heartburn during pregnancy: it is one of the commonly used options when a doctor or pharmacist agrees.
- Reflux symptoms with hiatus hernia or reflux oesophagitis: as symptom relief alongside medical care.
- Occasional sour stomach or “acidity”: the everyday term many people in Pakistan use for these complaints.
Gaviscon is not a treatment for stomach infections, ulcers, gallstones, constipation or every type of stomach pain. If your pain has a different pattern, use the doctor-visit section below.
4. Gaviscon Syrup Uses in Urdu (Roman Urdu)
Gaviscon syrup kis kaam aati hai? Yeh seene ki jalan, khatti dakar, acid reflux aur khane ke baad hone wali badhazmi mein aram deti hai.
Kaise kaam karti hai? Yeh mady ke upar ek tah bana deti hai jo acid ko upar chadhne se rokti hai, aur saath mein acid ko kam bhi karti hai.
Kab leni chahiye? Aam taur par khane ke baad aur raat ko sone se pehle. Pack par likhi hui miqdar ke mutabiq lein, aur naap ke liye dawai ke saath aane wala chamach ya cup istemal karein, ghar ka chamach nahi.
Kab doctor ko dikhayen? Agar 7 din baad bhi jalan ya dard rahe, ya nigalne mein mushkil, wazan ka kam hona, kaali potty ya khoon ki ulti ho, to foran doctor se rabta karein.
5. Types of Gaviscon Available
Gaviscon comes in several forms. The exact range in Pakistan depends on the pharmacy and brand supply, so check the pack in your hand.
| Type | What it is | Short note |
|---|---|---|
| Gaviscon Liquid (original) | Standard alginate-antacid suspension | Most common “Gaviscon syrup” in Pakistani pharmacies, usually 120 ml and 240 ml bottles |
| Gaviscon Advance Liquid | Higher alginate strength, with potassium bicarbonate | Smaller dose volume per take. The potassium content matters for people with kidney problems |
| Gaviscon chewable tablets | Tablets you chew, not swallow whole | Portable option. Chew thoroughly before swallowing |
| Gaviscon Double Action | Alginate plus extra antacids | Mainly sold in the UK and some other markets |
| Gaviscon sachets / infant powder | Single-dose or baby formulation | Infant products are for doctor-directed use only |
| Flavours | Peppermint, aniseed (fennel) | Flavour changes taste, not the purpose |
6. Gaviscon Syrup Dose and How to Take It
Always follow the label on your pack or your doctor’s instructions. The figures below are general guidance only.
| Group | General guidance |
|---|---|
| Adults and 12 years and over (Gaviscon Liquid) | 10 to 20 ml after meals and at bedtime, up to 4 times a day (NHS) |
| Adults and 12 years and over (Gaviscon Advance Liquid) | Product leaflets list 5 to 10 ml after meals and at bedtime. NHS describes 10 ml four times a day as its upper pattern. Follow the pack you have |
| Chewable tablets | 2 to 4 tablets, chewed, up to 4 times a day (NHS) |
| Children under 12 | Only on a doctor’s advice |
Some Pakistani drug listings mention half the adult dose for ages 2 to 12. UK and NHS guidance instead says under-12 use should follow a doctor’s advice, so treat any child dose as a doctor’s decision.
How to take it correctly
- Shake the bottle well.
- Measure with the supplied cup or spoon. A kitchen spoon gives the wrong amount.
- Take it after meals and at bedtime, since symptoms are often worse then.
- For occasional mild symptoms, take it only when needed.
- Do not lie flat right after the dose.
- Do not dilute it unless the pack says so.
How long can you use it? If you bought it without a prescription, check with a doctor if you still need it after 7 days. If you have used it regularly for a long time, speak with your doctor before stopping suddenly, because symptoms can return.
Before or after food? After meals and at bedtime is the standard timing, because that is when reflux pain is usually strongest.
Empty stomach? It can be taken on an empty stomach if symptoms appear, but the routine schedule is after meals.
Can you drink water after it? Yes, small sips are fine.
7. Gaviscon Syrup Price in Pakistan
Gaviscon prices in Pakistan have been changing, and online listings for the same 120 ml bottle have appeared at very different numbers depending on the seller and the date. A fixed number would go out of date quickly, so use this as a guide only.
| Pack | Price guidance |
|---|---|
| Gaviscon Liquid 120 ml | Online listings have ranged roughly from PKR 90 to PKR 250. Check the printed MRP on the bottle |
| Gaviscon Liquid 240 ml | Usually priced above the 120 ml bottle. Confirm at your pharmacy |
| Gaviscon Advance Liquid 120 ml | Generally listed above the standard liquid. Confirm at your pharmacy |
Price last checked:The safest figure is the retail price printed on the pack or the price your local pharmacy gives you. Medicine prices in Pakistan are regulated through DRAP, so you can also check the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan for official price notices.
Cheaper alternatives: Lower-priced alginate-antacid liquids exist in Pakistan (listings show brands such as Lagita Advance and Gastrocid). Ask a pharmacist whether the ingredients match before switching.
8. Side Effects of Gaviscon
Gaviscon is considered a very safe medicine, and most people have no side effects. When they occur, they are usually mild and go away after stopping the medicine.
Common or mild effects
- Nausea or vomiting
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Wind and bloating, especially if you take more than the usual dose
Gaviscon liquid side effects
The liquid form can cause the same mild digestive effects listed above. Some formulations contain preservatives (parabens), which can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive people.
Rare but serious
- Serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): swelling of lips, mouth, throat or tongue, trouble breathing, tight throat, itchy raised rash, or sudden confusion or dizziness. This is an emergency. Call your local emergency number or go to the nearest hospital immediately.
- Breathing effects: rare cases of wheezing or bronchospasm have been listed in UK prescribing information. Stop the medicine and seek medical help if this happens.
Long-term side effects of Gaviscon liquid
No clear pattern of serious long-term harm is described for occasional use. The real concern with long-term use is different:
- It can cover up a condition that needs diagnosis, such as persistent reflux disease or an ulcer.
- The product contains sodium (and potassium in Advance), which matters if you use it often and have heart, blood pressure or kidney problems.
- Frequent use of calcium-containing antacids can matter for people prone to kidney stones or high calcium.
If you need Gaviscon most days for more than a week, get checked instead of continuing on your own.
Gaviscon and constipation or diarrhoea
Either can happen in a small number of users. Constipation is more often linked with calcium-containing products, and loose stools with magnesium- or bicarbonate-type effects. Reduce the dose to what the label says, drink fluids, and see a doctor if it continues.
Report side effects: You can report suspected side effects through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme in the UK, or to your local pharmacovigilance contact or doctor in Pakistan. For more detail, see the NHS guide to Gaviscon side effects.
9. Who Should Be Careful With Gaviscon?
Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using it if you:
- Are allergic to alginate, bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, parabens or anything in the formula.
- Follow a low-sodium diet, or have high blood pressure, heart failure or fluid retention. Gaviscon products can be high in sodium.
- Have kidney disease. Gaviscon Advance contains potassium, and calcium-containing versions can matter too.
- Are on a low-potassium or controlled-potassium diet.
- Are over 40 and have new heartburn or indigestion symptoms you never had before.
- Are giving it to a child under 12 or a baby.
- Take other regular medicines (see the interaction section).
Pregnancy: The NHS says you can take Gaviscon during pregnancy and should follow the dose instructions. UK prescribing information also supports use in pregnancy when clinically needed. Ask your doctor if it does not work, because another medicine may suit you better.
Breastfeeding: The NHS says you can take Gaviscon while breastfeeding and it should not cause side effects in your baby.
Elderly: Older adults are more likely to have kidney or heart conditions, so check the sodium and potassium points above.
10. Gaviscon Interactions With Other Medicines
Gaviscon can reduce how well some medicines are absorbed if taken at the same time. UK prescribing information suggests leaving about 2 hours between Gaviscon and medicines such as:
- Tetracycline-type antibiotics
- Fluoroquinolone antibiotics
- Iron supplements
- Thyroid hormones (levothyroxine)
- Chloroquine
- Bisphosphonates (osteoporosis medicines)
Other points:
- Paracetamol can generally be taken with Gaviscon, according to the NHS.
- Ibuprofen, aspirin and similar painkillers can irritate the stomach and may make reflux worse. Related reading: Caflam tablet uses explains why diclofenac-type painkillers need caution if you have acidity.
- If you take a proton pump inhibitor such as esomeprazole, see Nexum tablet uses for how the two medicines differ.
Always tell your pharmacist the full list of medicines you take.
11. Gaviscon for Bloating, Gas and Stomach Pain
These are common search questions, so here is a straight answer for each.
Gaviscon for bloating: Gaviscon is designed for reflux, not as a dedicated gas remedy. It can help when the bloating comes with reflux or heartburn. Taking too much can itself cause wind and bloating, so stick to the label. For gas without reflux, a simethicone-type product or a diet change often fits better. See our guide on how to reduce gas in the stomach.
Gaviscon for stomach gas: The same applies. It may ease gas that is part of the reflux picture, but it is not a first-choice “gas syrup”.
Gaviscon for stomach pain: It helps pain that comes from acid, such as upper abdominal burning after meals. It will not treat cramping, infection, gallbladder pain or severe abdominal pain. Related: best medicine for stomach pain.
Gaviscon for burning stomach: A burning feeling in the upper abdomen or chest after eating often responds to Gaviscon. If the burning is frequent, wakes you at night, or keeps returning, get it checked. See stomach burning treatment and remedies.
Gaviscon for gastric problems: In Pakistan, “gastric” usually means acidity, gas and indigestion together. Gaviscon covers the acid and reflux part. See gastric problem solution for the wider picture.
12. Gaviscon vs Other Stomach Syrups and Antacids in Pakistan
Here is a short comparison to help you choose the right type. Check availability and ingredients with your pharmacist.
| Option | Best for | Short note |
|---|---|---|
| Gaviscon / Gaviscon Advance | Reflux, heartburn after meals | Alginate raft plus antacid. Good for reflux-type burning |
| Plain antacid liquids (aluminium / magnesium type) | Quick acid neutralising | No raft effect. Some can cause constipation or loose stools |
| Lagita Advance / Gastrocid and similar alginate liquids | Lower-cost alginate-antacid option | Check the ingredient list matches your need |
| Simethicone-type products | Trapped gas and bloating | Aimed at gas, not acid. See gas syrup in Pakistan |
| Proton pump inhibitors (e.g. esomeprazole) | Frequent or ongoing acid reflux | Reduce acid production. Often need medical advice. See Nexum tablet uses |
| Antispasmodics (e.g. mebeverine) | Cramping from irritable bowel | Different problem. See Colofac tablet uses |
More comparisons on the way:
- Best stomach syrups in Pakistan
- Best antacid syrup in Pakistan
- Antacid syrup price in Pakistan
- Acidity syrup in Pakistan
- Syrup for indigestion
- Syrup for gas and acidity
13. Lifestyle Tips That Help Reflux
The NHS lists simple steps that work alongside Gaviscon:
- Eat smaller meals more often.
- Cut back on fatty and spicy food.
- Raise the head of your bed or use extra pillows instead of lying flat.
- Avoid lying down straight after eating.
- Limit trigger foods and drinks you notice, such as strong tea, fried food or fizzy drinks.
For other options, see home remedies for gas and stomach pain.
14. When to See a Doctor
Get medical advice promptly if you have heartburn or stomach pain together with any of these:
- Trouble swallowing or pain when swallowing
- Vomiting blood or black, tar-like stools
- Unexplained weight loss
- Repeated vomiting
- Chest pain, especially with sweating, breathlessness or pain spreading to the arm or jaw (this can be a heart problem, not acidity)
- Symptoms that last longer than 7 days despite treatment
- New heartburn when you are over 40
These can signal conditions that Gaviscon cannot treat. For background, see the NHS pages on heartburn and acid reflux and indigestion.
15. Storage, Missed Dose and Overdose
- Storage: Keep the bottle tightly closed, away from heat and out of children’s reach. Many Gaviscon liquids are stored below 30°C. Check the pack. Do not use it after the expiry date.
- Missed dose: If you take it regularly and miss a dose, skip it and take the next one at the usual time. Do not double up.
- Too much: Taking more than usual may cause wind and bloating and is unlikely to cause harm for most people. If you are worried, or a child has swallowed a large amount, contact a doctor or pharmacist.
16. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Gaviscon syrup used for? Gaviscon syrup treats heartburn, acid reflux and indigestion linked to reflux by forming a protective layer over stomach contents and neutralising extra acid.
What are the side effects of Gaviscon? Most people have none. Mild effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, wind or bloating. Serious allergic reactions are rare and need emergency care.
What are the Gaviscon liquid side effects? They are the same mild digestive effects, and in rare cases an allergic reaction. Some liquid formulas contain preservatives that can bother sensitive people.
What are the long-term side effects of Gaviscon liquid? Occasional use has no known pattern of serious long-term harm. Regular daily use can hide an underlying problem and adds sodium (and potassium in Advance), so see a doctor if you need it for more than 7 days.
Can I take Gaviscon every day? Short-term daily use is common when needed, but if you need it beyond 7 days without a prescription, check with a doctor.
Is Gaviscon good for bloating? It helps when bloating comes with reflux. It is not a dedicated gas medicine, and too much can cause wind and bloating.
Is Gaviscon safe in pregnancy? The NHS says you can take it during pregnancy and breastfeeding, following the label. Check with your doctor if it does not help.
Can children take Gaviscon syrup? Children under 12 should only have it on a doctor’s advice. Special infant forms are doctor-directed.
How fast does Gaviscon work? It usually starts working soon after a dose, often within minutes, but the relief is temporary.
Should I take Gaviscon before or after meals? After meals and at bedtime, since reflux is often worst then.
What is the price of Gaviscon syrup in Pakistan? Prices vary by pack, seller and date. Check the MRP printed on the bottle or ask your pharmacist for the current price.
Which is better for acidity: Gaviscon or an antacid? For reflux-type heartburn, Gaviscon’s raft can help more than a plain antacid. For frequent acid problems, a doctor may suggest a different medicine.
Can I take Gaviscon with other medicines? Leave about 2 hours between Gaviscon and medicines such as certain antibiotics, iron and thyroid tablets. Paracetamol is generally fine.
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for general information and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. Do not start, stop or change a medicine based on this page alone. If your symptoms are severe, getting worse or lasting more than a week, see a qualified healthcare professional.
Sources and Further Reading
- NHS: About Gaviscon
- NHS: How and when to take Gaviscon
- NHS: Side effects of Gaviscon
- NHS: Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while taking Gaviscon
- Electronic Medicines Compendium: Gaviscon Advance Peppermint SmPC
- Electronic Medicines Compendium: Gaviscon Peppermint Liquid SmPC
- Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP)
- MHRA Yellow Card scheme
Related Articles on Medinzo
- Nexum tablet uses
- Colofac tablet uses
- Caflam tablet uses
- Probiotic sachet uses
- Movcol sachet uses