AVICAINE 3X SUSP 170ML.

Category Name Gastroenterology — Alginate-Based Antacid & Reflux Suppressant Suspension (Raft-Forming Agent)

Common Indications Avicaine-3X Suspension is used for the symptomatic relief of acid-related upper gastrointestinal conditions, including:

• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD / Acid Reflux)
• Heartburn and acid regurgitation
• Indigestion and dyspepsia (sour stomach, bloating, and post-meal discomfort)
• Reflux-related symptoms during pregnancy (under medical supervision)
• Hiatus hernia-associated reflux symptoms
• Post-meal acid-related discomfort and belching
• Symptomatic relief of oesophageal irritation caused by acid reflux

Common Dosing

• Standard Adult Dose: 10–20 ml (2–4 teaspoons) taken three to four times daily, after meals and at bedtime, or as prescribed by your doctor
• Children (6–12 years): 5–10 ml after meals and at bedtime, under medical supervision
• Children below 6 years: Use only under strict medical guidance
• Timing: Best taken after meals and at bedtime when acid reflux and heartburn are most likely to occur
• Shake Well: Shake the bottle thoroughly before each use to ensure uniform suspension
• Use the measuring cup or spoon provided for accurate dosing

Always follow your doctor's prescribed dose and duration.

Common Side Effects Avicaine-3X Suspension is generally very well tolerated. Side effects are uncommon but may include:

• Mild bloating or increased belching (from CO₂ release by Sodium Bicarbonate)
• Flatulence or gas
• Nausea in sensitive individuals
• Constipation with prolonged use (Calcium Carbonate component)
• Mild taste sensitivity or chalky aftertaste

Use with caution and consult your doctor if you experience:

• Persistent or worsening reflux symptoms despite regular use
• Swelling of the ankles or feet — may indicate sodium retention (relevant for patients on sodium-restricted diets due to Sodium Alginate and Sodium Bicarbonate content)
• Symptoms of hypercalcemia with excessive use — including unusual thirst, frequent urination, or muscle weakness

Report any persistent or worsening side effects to your doctor promptly.

Common Interactions Inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications you are taking. Notable interactions include:

• Tetracycline and Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics (e.g., Doxycycline, Ciprofloxacin) — Calcium Carbonate may reduce antibiotic absorption; separate doses by at least 2–3 hours
• Iron Supplements — Calcium may interfere with iron absorption; take iron supplements at least 2 hours apart from this suspension
• Thyroid Medications (e.g., Levothyroxine) — Calcium Carbonate may reduce the absorption of thyroid hormone; administer at least 4 hours apart
• Bisphosphonates (e.g., Alendronate) — Calcium significantly reduces their absorption; separate by at least 2 hours
• Other Antacids or Acid-Suppressing Agents — Concurrent use with PPIs, H2 blockers, or other antacids may have additive effects; consult your doctor before combining
• Sodium-Restricted Medications or Diets — Sodium Alginate and Sodium Bicarbonate contribute to the daily sodium load; patients on strict sodium restriction (e.g., heart failure, hypertension) should use with caution and medical guidance

Special Instructions

Mechanism of Action Avicaine-3X Suspension works through a unique and entirely physical raft-forming mechanism — distinct from conventional antacids and acid suppressants — providing targeted, localised relief without significantly altering overall gastric acidity:

• Sodium Alginate (250 mg — Raft-Forming Agent): Sodium Alginate is a natural polysaccharide derived from brown seaweed. When it reaches the stomach, it reacts with gastric acid to form a thick, cohesive, viscous gel. This gel rapidly floats to the surface of the stomach contents, forming a physical barrier — known as the alginate raft — that sits on top of the acidic gastric pool. This raft acts as a mechanical plug at the gastro-oesophageal junction, physically preventing the reflux of acidic stomach contents back into the oesophagus. The raft is durable, floats for an extended period, and provides sustained post-meal protection against reflux episodes
• Sodium Bicarbonate (133.5 mg — CO₂ Generator and pH Buffer): Reacts with gastric acid to generate carbon dioxide (CO₂) bubbles that become trapped within the forming alginate gel matrix, making the raft buoyant and enabling it to float effectively on the stomach contents. Sodium Bicarbonate also provides mild, immediate neutralization of gastric acid at the oesophageal junction, delivering rapid symptomatic relief from heartburn and regurgitation
• Calcium Carbonate (80 mg — Raft Strengthener and Antacid): Reacts with Sodium Alginate in the presence of gastric acid to form calcium alginate — a firmer, more cohesive, and mechanically stronger gel structure. This significantly increases the integrity, density, and durability of the alginate raft, ensuring it remains intact and effective for a prolonged period after meals. Calcium Carbonate also contributes mild antacid activity, neutralizing residual surface acid within the raft zone

Together, these three components create a robust, buoyant, and long-lasting physical raft barrier that mechanically suppresses acid reflux — offering effective, well-tolerated, and rapid symptomatic relief, particularly after meals and at bedtime when reflux is most frequent.

Instructions to Take

• Shake the bottle thoroughly before every use to ensure uniform distribution of the suspension
• Measure the dose accurately using the graduated measuring cup provided — do not estimate using a household spoon
• Take after meals and at bedtime for maximum effectiveness — the raft forms most efficiently when stomach contents are present after eating
• Do not take on an empty stomach as the raft formation depends on interaction with gastric contents
• Do not lie down immediately after taking the dose — remain upright for at least 20–30 minutes to allow the raft to form and position effectively
• Do not dilute the suspension with water immediately before taking it, as this may reduce raft integrity
• Separate from other oral medications by at least 2 hours to avoid absorption interference, particularly antibiotics, iron, and thyroid medications
• Patients on sodium-restricted diets should inform their doctor before use, given the sodium content of this formulation
• If symptoms persist beyond 7–14 days despite regular use, consult your doctor as further investigation may be required
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Do not freeze. Keep out of reach of children. Check expiry date before use and discard any unused suspension after the recommended period following opening

This information is intended for general reference purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any medication.