Tums vs Rolaids vs Gaviscon: Which Antacid Works Best?
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Time to read 4 min
Introduction
If you have ever felt the burning discomfort of heartburn or acid indigestion, you have probably reached for an antacid.Â
But with so many options, how do you know which one works best for your symptoms?Â
In this guide, we will break down the differences between these popular antacids, compare their ingredients, effectiveness, and side effects, and help you choose the right one for fast, reliable relief.
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About Claisen
Claisen is a 100% online platform designed to provide personalized relief for bloating, gas, and heartburn, so you can run stronger and recover faster. With Claisen, you can skip the guesswork and get instant relief!
What Is Heartburn and Why Do We Need Antacids?
Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest or throat, usually after eating.
It is caused by stomach acid coming back into the esophagus, a condition known as acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).Â
Occasional heartburn may be triggered by spicy foods, fatty meals, caffeine, alcohol, or even stress.Â
Antacids neutralize excess gastric acid in the stomach, offering fast-acting relief for heartburn, upset stomach, and indigestion.Â
Among the many brands available globally, Tums, Rolaids, and Gaviscon are frequently recommended and widely reviewed by patients.
Tums, Rolaids, and Gaviscon Formulations and Overview
1. Tums
How it works:
- When chewed, calcium carbonate reacts instantly with hydrochloric acid in the stomach to form calcium chloride, water, and carbon dioxide, raising pH value and relieving burning sensations
Formulation:
- The main active ingredient of tums is calcium carbonate, a basic salt which has acid-neutralizing capacity
- Available as chewable tablets in various strengths and flavors
- Tums is known for a fast onset and pleasant taste
Limitations:
Excessive use can lead to hypercalcemia (too much calcium in the blood).
It may cause kidney stones or interfere with the absorption of other minerals.
It only neutralizes stomach acid but doesn’t prevent acid production.
Having heartburn too often? Read our other blogs on Heartburn too!
2. Rolaids
How It Works:
- Calcium carbonate neutralizes acid, while magnesium hydroxide rapidly reacts to form magnesium chloride and water.
Formulation:
- Rolaids contains both calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide.
- Calcium has acid-blocking properties while magnesium has a neutralizing effect.
Note:Â Rolaids is considered better than Tums since it help balance pH of your stomach with lesser side effects and also reduces risk of constipation from calcium alone.
Limitations:
Long-term use can disrupt calcium and magnesium levels, affecting heart and kidney function.
Excessive intake may lead to alkalosis (too much base in the body), causing nausea, muscle twitching, or confusion.
Magnesium can accumulate in people with kidney disease, leading to toxicity.
3. Gaviscon
How it works:
- On contact with stomach acid, sodium alginate forms a gel that floats atop stomach contents, creating a physical barrier to acid reflux.Â
- The antacid ingredients then neutralize acid below this layer.
Formulation:
- Gaviscon combines alginates (sodium alginate from seaweed), bicarbonates, and either calcium or magnesium carbonate/aluminum hydroxide.
Limitations:
Certain Gaviscon formulations contain high sodium , which may be unsuitable for people with high blood pressure or heart conditions .
Some people don't like the chalky texture or minty flavor , especially in liquid form.
Not very effective as the barrier it forms may break down if you lie down just after taking it or have a large meal.
Which Antacid is the best for YOU?
- Neutralization: Laboratory and clinical data show Gaviscon's acid-neutralizing capacity is better than Tums.
- Duration: Tums and Rolaids last around 2 to 3 hours; Gaviscon’s effect lasts up to 12 hours, making it the preferred option for persistent heartburn.
- Speed:Â Tums and Rolaids provide immediate relief; Gaviscon may take slightly longer but extends the duration of comfort.
Side Effects and Precautions:
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Tums
- Precautions/Risks: Hypercalcemia, kidney stones, acid rebound if overused; not for those with kidney problems
- Is it safe for pregnancy? Yes, if used in moderation
Rolaids
- Precautions/Risks: Magnesium can occasionally cause diarrheaÂ
- Is it safe for pregnancy? Yes (Consult your physician before use)
Gaviscon
- Precautions/Risks: Use wisely if on a sodium-restricted diet or with severe kidney dysfunction
- Is it safe for pregnancy? Very Safe for pregnancy
Disclaimer:Â Always consult a physician before using any antacid in pregnancy or if you are on other medications
Key takeaways
Who Should Choose Tums?
Those needing the fastest relief for occasional heartburn or indigestion
Pregnant women (as approved by their obstetrician) management.
Less suitable for those with frequent or severe reflux, constipation concerns, or kidney disease.
Who Should Choose Rolaids?
Those who need fast relief for heartburn, bloating and gas
Great for those struggle with constipation using calcium-only antacids.
Less suitable for people with advanced kidney disease due to the magnesium component.
Who Should Choose Gaviscon?
Chronic heartburn or GERD patientsÂ
People troubled by night-time symptoms, reflux cough, or symptoms that are not relieved by other antacids .
Less suitable for people with severe kidney dysfunction
Skip the hassle and get personalized relief now!
Claisen is a 100% online platform designed to provide personalized relief for bloating, gas, and heartburn:Â perfect for expecting moms looking for safe and effective options.
With Claisen, you can skip the guesswork and get instant relief.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which antacid is best for night-time or persistent heartburn?
Gaviscon
Which antacid works fastest for heartburn?
Tums and Rolaids start working in minutes, Gaviscon takes some time, but gives a lasting relief.
What are the common side effects of antacids?
Tums: Constipation, gas, rarely kidney stones or hypercalcemia if overused.
Rolaids: Constipation or diarrhea
Gaviscon:Â Mild gas or bloating, diarrhea
Are Tums, Rolaids, or Gaviscon safe in pregnancy?
Yes, all three are considered safe when used as directed, but Gaviscon is the most extensively studied for safety and efficacy in pregnancy. Always consult a healthcare professional before use.
