Algicid Plus is a medication used to relieve symptoms of gastric reflux, such as heartburn and indigestion.It is available as both a suspension and a chewable tablet. 

Composition:

Each 5 ml of Algicid Plus suspension or each tablet contains the following active ingredients:

• Sodium Alginate BP:250 mg 
• Sodium Bicarbonate BP:133.5 mg 
• Calcium Carbonate BP:80 mg 

Mechanism of Action:

When ingested, Algicid Plus reacts with stomach acid to form a raft of alginic acid gel.This gel has a near-neutral pH and floats on the stomach contents, effectively creating a physical barrier that helps to prevent stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus(gastroesophageal reflux).In severe cases, the raft itself may be refluxed, providing a soothing effect on the esophagus. The calcium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate also help to neutralize excess stomach acid.

Indications:

Algicid Plus is indicated for the relief of:

• Gastric reflux 
• Heartburn 
• Indigestion 
• Flatulence associated with gastric reflux 
• Heartburn of pregnancy 
• Epigastric and retrosternal distress where the underlying cause is gastric reflux 

Dosage and Administration: 

• Adults and childrenover 12 years:
  • Suspension: 10-20 ml after meals and at bedtime, up to four times a day.
  • Tablet: 1-2 tablets after meals and at bedtime, up to four times a day (chew thoroughly before swallowing).
• Children 6 to 12 years (Suspension): 5-10 ml after meals and at bedtime, up to four times a day.
• Children under 6 years: Not recommended unless under medical advice.
• Elderly: No dose modifications are usually necessary.

Side Effects:

Common side effects may include:

• Constipation 
• Flatulence 
• Stomach cramps
• Belching
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Headache

Ingestion of very large doses may lead to a feeling of swelling. 

Precautions:

• If symptoms do not improve after seven days, consult a doctor.
• Use with caution in patients on a sodium-restricted diet as Algicid Plus contains a significant amount of sodium.
• Care should be taken in patients with hypercalcaemia, nephrocalcinosis, and recurrent calcium-containing renal calculias Algicid Plus contains calcium carbonate. 
• Due to the aspartame content in some formulations, it should be used with caution in patients with phenylketonuria. 
• Antacids may interact with the absorption of other medications.A 2-hour intervalshould be considered between taking Algicid Plus and other medicinal products, especially certain antibiotics (tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones), digoxin, iron salts, ketoconazole, neuroleptics, thyroid hormones, penicillamine, and beta-blockers. 

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation:

• Pregnancy:Algicid Plus can be used during pregnancy if clinically needed, as clinical studies and post-marketing data have not indicated any malformative or fetal/neonatal toxicity. 
• Breastfeeding:Algicid Plus can be used during breastfeeding as no effects on breastfed newborns/infants of treated mothers have been shown. 

Contraindications:

Algicid Plus is contraindicated in patients with known or suspected hypersensitivityto the active ingredients or any of the excipients. 

Storage:

Store below 30°C, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children. Do not refrigerate or freeze the suspension.

Important Note: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not substitute professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for specific instructions and guidance regarding your medication. They can assess your individual medical condition and provide the most appropriate advice.