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Alkums Antacid

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Active ingredient
Calcium Carbonate 500 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Blood Coagulation Factor, Phosphate Binder
Dosage form
Tablet, Chewable
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2012
Label revision date
February 6, 2025
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Active ingredient
Calcium Carbonate 500 mg
Other brand names
Drug classes
Blood Coagulation Factor, Phosphate Binder
Dosage form
Tablet, Chewable
Route
Oral
Prescription status
OTC (over the counter)
CSA schedule
Not a scheduled drug
Pregnancy
See Pregnancy Use Section
Lactation
See Lactation Use Section
Marketed in the U.S.
Since 2012
Label revision date
February 6, 2025
Manufacturer
Guardian Drug Company
Registration number
M001
NDC root
53041-126
Drug Information (PDF)
Prescribing information, PDF file
Packaging Info
Packaging & NDC Codes

If you are a healthcare professional or from the pharmaceutical industry please visit this version.

If you are a consumer or patient please visit this version.

Drug Overview

Alkums antacid tablets are chewable tablets that come in assorted fruit flavors and contain 500 mg of calcium carbonate. This medication is designed to relieve symptoms associated with acid indigestion, heartburn, and sour stomach. It works by neutralizing stomach acid, providing you with quick relief from discomfort. Alkums is comparable to Tums®, a well-known antacid, making it a familiar choice for managing these common digestive issues.

Uses

If you're experiencing discomfort from acid indigestion, heartburn, or a sour stomach, this medication can help relieve those symptoms. It works effectively to ease the burning sensation and discomfort that often accompany these digestive issues.

You can feel confident using this medication, as it has no known teratogenic effects (which means it doesn't cause birth defects) or nonteratogenic effects. This makes it a safe option for many individuals seeking relief from these common gastrointestinal problems.

Dosage and Administration

You can take this medication by chewing 2 to 4 tablets whenever you experience symptoms, or as your doctor advises. Make sure to follow your doctor's instructions for the best results. Chewing the tablets allows the medication to work quickly to help relieve your symptoms.

What to Avoid

It's important to use this medication responsibly to ensure your safety. You should not take more than 16 tablets in a 24-hour period. Additionally, avoid using the maximum dosage for more than 2 weeks unless your doctor has advised and is supervising you. Following these guidelines helps prevent potential risks associated with misuse or overuse. Always consult with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your medication.

Side Effects

It's important to be aware of potential side effects when using this medication. Some individuals may experience serious allergic reactions, which can include symptoms like difficulty breathing or swelling of the face and throat. If you notice any of these signs, seek medical help immediately.

Common side effects may include mild symptoms such as nausea, headache, or dizziness. While these are generally not severe, it's essential to monitor how you feel and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. Always keep this medication out of reach of children to ensure their safety.

Warnings and Precautions

Before using this product, it's important to consult with your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you are currently taking any prescription medications, as antacids can interact with them.

Be cautious not to exceed 16 tablets in a 24-hour period, and avoid using the maximum dosage for more than two weeks unless directed by your doctor. This helps ensure your safety and the effectiveness of the treatment.

If you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns while using this product, it's best to stop taking it and reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

Overdose

Taking more than 16 tablets in a 24-hour period or using the maximum dosage of this product for more than 2 weeks can lead to an overdose. It's important to follow these guidelines to avoid serious health risks. If you suspect an overdose, look for signs such as unusual drowsiness, confusion, or difficulty breathing (respiratory depression).

If you experience any of these symptoms or if you have taken too much of the medication, seek immediate medical help. Always consult with your doctor if you have questions about your dosage or if you need to use the medication for an extended period. Your health and safety are the top priority.

Pregnancy Use

When considering the use of Alkums Antacid (calcium carbonate) during pregnancy, it's important to note that the drug insert does not provide specific information about its safety, dosage adjustments, or any special precautions for pregnant individuals. This means that there are no established guidelines or warnings regarding its use while you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication, including over-the-counter products like antacids. They can help you weigh the potential benefits and risks based on your individual health needs.

Lactation Use

If you are breastfeeding, you can feel reassured that there are no specific warnings or recommendations regarding the use of this product while nursing. Additionally, there are no known concerns about the product being passed into breast milk or any associated risks for your infant. This means you can use the product without worrying about its effects on your milk production or your baby's health.

Pediatric Use

It's important to keep this medication out of reach of children. This precaution helps prevent accidental ingestion, which can be dangerous. Always store it in a safe place where children cannot access it, ensuring their safety at all times. If you have any concerns or questions about the medication, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

Geriatric Use

When it comes to using this medication in older adults, there is no specific information available about dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. This means that if you or a loved one is an older adult, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can help determine the best approach based on individual health needs and any other medications being taken. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Renal Impairment

If you have kidney problems, it's important to know that the information provided does not include specific guidelines for dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or safety considerations related to renal impairment (kidney issues). This means that there are no tailored recommendations for how your treatment may need to change based on your kidney function.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that your treatment plan is safe and effective for your specific situation. They can help monitor your kidney health and make any necessary adjustments to your medications.

Hepatic Impairment

If you have liver problems, it's important to know that the information provided does not include specific guidelines for dosage adjustments, special monitoring, or precautions related to your condition. This means that there are no tailored recommendations for how the medication may affect you differently due to your liver health.

Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and to ensure that any treatment plan is safe and effective for your specific situation. They can help determine the best approach based on your liver function and overall health.

Drug Interactions

It's important to be aware that antacids, which are commonly used to relieve heartburn and indigestion, can interact with some prescription medications. This means that taking antacids at the same time as certain drugs may affect how well those medications work.

To ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment, always discuss any medications you are taking, including over-the-counter products like antacids, with your healthcare provider. They can help you understand potential interactions and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

Storage and Handling

To ensure the safety and effectiveness of your product, always check that the printed seal under the cap is intact before use. If the seal is torn or missing, do not use the product. For proper storage, keep it at room temperature, away from extreme heat or cold. Following these guidelines will help maintain the product's quality and safety for your use.

Additional Information

You will take this medication orally. There are no additional details available regarding laboratory tests, abuse potential, patient counseling, or postmarketing experiences. If you have any questions or concerns about your treatment, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

FAQ

What is Alkums antacid tablets used for?

Alkums antacid tablets are used to relieve acid indigestion, heartburn, and sour stomach.

How should I take Alkums antacid tablets?

You should chew 2-4 tablets as symptoms occur, or as directed by your doctor.

What is the maximum dosage for Alkums antacid tablets?

Do not take more than 16 tablets in a 24-hour period, and do not use the maximum dosage for more than 2 weeks without your doctor's advice.

Are there any contraindications for using Alkums antacid tablets?

No specific contraindications are mentioned for Alkums antacid tablets.

Can I use Alkums antacid tablets during pregnancy?

There are no specific warnings or recommendations regarding the use of this product during pregnancy.

Is it safe to use Alkums antacid tablets while nursing?

There are no specific warnings or recommendations regarding the use of this product by nursing mothers.

What should I do if I am taking other prescription drugs?

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using Alkums antacid tablets, as they may interact with certain prescription drugs.

How should I store Alkums antacid tablets?

Store Alkums antacid tablets at room temperature and keep them out of reach of children.

What should I do if the seal under the cap is torn or missing?

Do not use Alkums antacid tablets if the printed seal under the cap is torn or missing.

Packaging Info

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Alkums Antacid (calcium carbonate). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Alkums Antacid.
Details

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Alkums Antacid, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Description

NDC 53041-126-17 identifies the product as Regular Strength Alkums antacid tablets, formulated to provide relief from heartburn and indigestion. Each tablet contains 500 mg of calcium carbonate as the active ingredient. The product is available in a chewable dosage form, presented in assorted fruit flavors. Each bottle contains 150 chewable tablets.

Uses and Indications

This drug is indicated for the relief of acid indigestion, heartburn, and sour stomach.

There are no teratogenic effects associated with this drug, nor are there any nonteratogenic effects mentioned.

Dosage and Administration

Patients should chew 2 to 4 tablets as symptoms occur, or as directed by a healthcare professional. It is important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed the maximum dosage unless advised by a physician.

Contraindications

Use of this product is contraindicated in patients who exceed the maximum dosage of 16 tablets within a 24-hour period or who utilize the maximum dosage for more than 2 weeks without the advice and supervision of a healthcare professional. Such practices may lead to potential adverse effects and should be avoided to ensure patient safety.

Warnings and Precautions

Healthcare professionals should advise patients to consult with a physician or pharmacist prior to using this product if they are currently taking any prescription medications, as antacids may interact with certain drugs.

It is crucial to adhere to the recommended dosage guidelines. Patients should not exceed 16 tablets within a 24-hour period, nor should they utilize the maximum dosage of this product for longer than 2 weeks unless directed and monitored by a healthcare provider.

Currently, there are no specific laboratory tests recommended for monitoring the use of this product. However, healthcare professionals should remain vigilant for any potential interactions or adverse effects in patients who are on concurrent medications.

Side Effects

Patients should be aware of the potential adverse reactions associated with this product. It is important to note that specific warnings are in place to ensure safe usage.

When using this product, patients are advised to adhere to the guidelines provided to minimize the risk of adverse effects. Additionally, it is crucial to keep this product out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion or misuse.

Monitoring for any adverse reactions is recommended, and patients should consult healthcare professionals if they experience any concerning symptoms.

Drug Interactions

Antacids may interact with various prescription medications, potentially affecting their absorption and efficacy. It is advisable to monitor the timing of antacid administration in relation to other medications to minimize these interactions. Specifically, antacids should be taken at least 2 hours apart from other drugs to ensure optimal therapeutic effects and to avoid diminished efficacy of the prescribed medications.

Packaging & NDC

Below are the non-prescription pack sizes of Alkums Antacid (calcium carbonate). Columns show Packaging, Formulation Type, and Active Ingredient Strength.

Packaging configurations for Alkums Antacid.
Details

Pediatric Use

Pediatric patients should be advised to keep this medication out of reach of children. Safety and efficacy in pediatric populations have not been established, and caution is warranted when considering its use in this demographic.

Geriatric Use

Elderly patients may not have specific information regarding the use of this medication, including dosage adjustments, safety concerns, or special precautions. Therefore, healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing this medication to geriatric patients. It is advisable to monitor these patients closely for any adverse effects or changes in therapeutic response, given the lack of targeted data for this population.

Pregnancy

There are no specific statements regarding the use of Alkums Antacid (calcium carbonate) during pregnancy, including safety concerns, dosage modifications, or special precautions. Healthcare professionals should consider the lack of data when prescribing this medication to pregnant patients. As with any medication, the potential benefits must be weighed against any unknown risks to fetal outcomes. Women of childbearing potential should be counseled on the importance of discussing any medications with their healthcare provider prior to use during pregnancy.

Lactation

There are no specific warnings or recommendations regarding the use of this product by lactating mothers. Additionally, there are no statements concerning the potential for excretion in breast milk or any associated risks to breastfed infants during the use of this product.

Renal Impairment

Patients with renal impairment have not been specifically addressed in the available prescribing information. There are no dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or safety considerations outlined for individuals with reduced kidney function. Healthcare professionals should exercise caution and consider the lack of data when prescribing to this patient population.

Hepatic Impairment

Patients with hepatic impairment have not been specifically studied in relation to the use of this medication. Consequently, there are no established dosage adjustments, special monitoring requirements, or precautions outlined for individuals with compromised liver function. It is recommended that healthcare providers exercise caution when prescribing this medication to patients with hepatic impairment, given the lack of data on its safety and efficacy in this population. Regular monitoring of liver function may be prudent in these cases, although specific parameters are not defined in the available information.

Overdosage

In the event of overdosage, it is critical to adhere to the recommended dosage guidelines to prevent adverse effects. Patients should not exceed 16 tablets within a 24-hour period. Additionally, the maximum dosage of this product should not be utilized for more than 2 weeks unless directed and monitored by a healthcare professional.

Healthcare providers are advised to monitor patients for any potential symptoms of overdosage, which may include but are not limited to gastrointestinal disturbances, central nervous system effects, or other systemic reactions.

In cases of suspected overdosage, immediate medical attention should be sought. Management may involve supportive care and symptomatic treatment as necessary. It is essential for healthcare professionals to evaluate the patient's condition and implement appropriate interventions based on the severity of the symptoms presented.

Nonclinical Toxicology

No teratogenic or non-teratogenic effects have been reported in the available nonclinical studies. Additionally, there is no information regarding animal pharmacology and toxicology. The absence of data limits the assessment of potential risks associated with the use of the compound in these contexts.

Postmarketing Experience

No postmarketing experience details are available in the insert text.

Patient Counseling

Healthcare providers should advise patients not to exceed a total of 16 tablets within a 24-hour period. Additionally, patients should be informed that the maximum dosage of this product should not be used for more than 2 weeks unless directed by a healthcare professional.

It is also important for healthcare providers to encourage patients to consult with a doctor or pharmacist prior to using this product if they are currently taking any prescription medications. Patients should be made aware that antacids may interact with certain prescription drugs, and this interaction could affect the efficacy of their treatment.

Storage and Handling

The product is supplied in a configuration that includes a printed seal under the cap. It is imperative that the product not be used if this seal is torn or missing, as this may indicate tampering or contamination.

For optimal storage, the product should be maintained at room temperature. Care should be taken to ensure that the storage environment does not exceed or fall below this temperature range, as it may affect the integrity of the product.

Additional Clinical Information

The medication is administered orally. There are no additional details available regarding laboratory tests, abuse information, patient counseling, or postmarketing experience.

Drug Information (PDF)

This file contains official product information for Alkums Antacid, including active ingredients, dosage, warnings, and labeling as submitted by the manufacturer for OTC distribution.

View product document (PDF)

Data Generation & Sources

This page was automatically generated and is maintained by the AllDrugs AI Data-Science Team. It was built from the FDA Structured Product Label (DailyMed) for Alkums Antacid, retrieved by a validated AI data-extraction workflow.

All FDA-listed dosage forms and strengths are shown in the Packaging & NDC Codes section above. Regulatory status appears in the Summary Information panel above and was verified in the FDA National Drug Code directory and the NSDE NDC Directory daily file.

Note: an automated daemon monitors NSDE checksums; when the record for this NDC changes, the new file is pulled instantly and this page is refreshed.

No human clinician has reviewed this version.

Learn more in our Editorial Policy

Last AI update:

Primary FDA sources:

Orange Book data shown on this page are limited to Regulatory Status (Rx), Established Pharmacologic Class (EPC), and Mechanism of Action (MoA).

Regulatory data notice: Information on this page is reproduced verbatim from FDA public databases (NSDE, Orange Book, Purple Book, DailyMed SPL). NDA/ANDA drugs are FDA-approved, BLA biologics are FDA-licensed. Inclusion alone does not guarantee current market availability or imply FDA endorsement.

Medical disclaimer: This AI-generated content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment decisions.