Gaviscon Advance Aniseed Oral Suspension, 300ml

Gaviscon Advance is an alginate-based anti-reflux medication that works by a completely different mechanism from acid-suppressing treatments such as PPIs (omeprazole) and H2-blockers. When taken after meals or at bedtime, the sodium alginate reacts with stomach acid to form a viscous gel raft that floats on top of the stomach contents. This physical barrier prevents the reflux of acidic stomach contents into the oesophagus, protecting the oesophageal lining from acid damage and relieving the burning sensation of heartburn without suppressing gastric acid production.

Specs

• Active ingredients: Sodium Alginate, Potassium Bicarbonate
• Form: Oral suspension
• Volume: 300ml
• Flavour: Aniseed
• Action: Physical alginate raft - non-systemic
• Category: Anti-reflux / heartburn treatment

Benefits

• The alginate raft mechanism provides fast relief within minutes of ingestion because the gel forms immediately in the stomach rather than needing to be absorbed into the bloodstream and exert a systemic pharmacological effect
• Because Gaviscon works as a physical barrier rather than a drug absorbed into the body, it has no systemic drug effects and does not interact with medications the way acid-suppressing drugs can - making it broadly safe to use alongside most other medicines
• The non-systemic mechanism makes it appropriate for consideration during pregnancy (under physician guidance), where many conventional acid-suppressing medications are used more cautiously
• The alginate raft specifically targets the reflux problem - acid flowing backward into the oesophagus - rather than suppressing all stomach acid production, which means normal digestion continues while the reflux is mechanically blocked
• The Advance formula provides a stronger alginate concentration than standard Gaviscon, providing more durable and effective barrier protection - particularly useful for severe or nighttime reflux where a robust raft is most needed

How to Use

• Take after meals and at bedtime - timing is critical for alginate therapy
• Adults: take 2 to 4 teaspoons (10 to 20ml) after each meal and at bedtime
• Do not dilute with water immediately before taking - the suspension should be taken as is
• Do not lie down immediately after taking - remain upright for 30 minutes to allow the raft to form correctly
• Do not eat or drink for 30 minutes after taking to preserve the raft in the stomach
• If symptoms are severe or persistent, consult a physician
• Store at room temperature and shake well before each use