Can Gaviscon Affect Your Blood Pressure? Understanding the Risks

October 12, 2025 •

3 min read

Approximately 1 in 3 adults experience heartburn, and many turn to over-the-counter remedies like Gaviscon. Gaviscon's sodium content can impact blood pressure, particularly in those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions. Given the widespread use of antacids, understanding this link is vital for safe medication use. Can Gaviscon affect your blood pressure? This article explores the relationship between this popular antacid and hypertension.

Quick Summary

Gaviscon contains sodium, which may raise blood pressure in sensitive individuals, such as those with hypertension, heart failure, or kidney disease. It can also interfere with the absorption of other medications, including some blood pressure drugs. Users must check product labels for sodium content and consult a healthcare provider, especially if managing existing health issues.

Key Points

Sodium Content: Gaviscon contains sodium bicarbonate, and certain formulations have a high enough sodium concentration to potentially raise blood pressure, especially with regular use.
Hypertension and Heart Conditions: Individuals with high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, or kidney disease are at a higher risk of adverse effects from Gaviscon's sodium content and should use it with caution.
Drug Interactions: Gaviscon can interfere with the absorption of other medications, including some blood pressure drugs like ACE inhibitors, potentially reducing their effectiveness.
Formulation Matters: The sodium content varies by Gaviscon product; for example, some liquid versions contain more sodium per dose than extra-strength tablets.
Alternatives Exist: Patients with concerns about blood pressure can consider low-sodium antacids or alternative treatments like Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers, after consulting a healthcare provider.
Consult a Professional: Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before using Gaviscon, particularly if you have pre-existing health conditions or are on a sodium-controlled diet.

Gaviscon's Mechanism and Active Ingredients

Gaviscon functions by creating a protective 'raft' on top of stomach contents to prevent acid reflux into the esophagus. This is achieved using a combination of active ingredients, with formulations varying between products. The most common ingredients include:

Sodium Alginate: A natural substance derived from brown seaweed, forming the protective raft.
Sodium Bicarbonate: A fast-acting antacid that neutralizes stomach acid. This is the primary source of sodium in many Gaviscon products.
Calcium Carbonate: Another antacid that neutralizes stomach acid.
Magnesium Carbonate: Acts as an antacid and can have a laxative effect.

The Problem with Sodium and High Blood Pressure

For most people, the sodium content in Gaviscon is not a concern with occasional use. However, individuals on controlled sodium diets, such as those with high blood pressure (hypertension), congestive heart failure, or kidney disease, the added sodium can be problematic. Excessive sodium intake leads to fluid retention, increasing blood volume and blood pressure. Over time, this can worsen pre-existing heart conditions or make it harder to control hypertension with medication.

Studies have shown a direct link between increased sodium intake and higher blood pressure, which highlights the need for caution with sodium-containing antacids. This is particularly important for chronic users who may be taking the medication multiple times daily over extended periods, accumulating a significant daily sodium dose.

Potential Drug Interactions

Beyond sodium content, Gaviscon can also interfere with the absorption of other medications, potentially affecting blood pressure management indirectly. The mechanism involves antacids altering stomach pH and the intestinal lining, which can change drug absorption.

ACE Inhibitors: The blood pressure medication captopril, for example, may have reduced bioavailability when taken with antacids.
Separating Doses: To minimize interaction risk, healthcare providers often recommend separating the administration of Gaviscon and other medications by 1 to 2 hours.

Comparison of Gaviscon Products for Blood Pressure

Patients concerned about blood pressure should be aware that different Gaviscon formulations have varying sodium levels. Always read the product label carefully to confirm the sodium content.


Feature	Gaviscon Regular Strength Liquid	Gaviscon Extra Strength Liquid	Gaviscon Extra Strength Tablets
Sodium Content (per dose)	52 mg per 15 mL tablespoon	11 mg per 5 mL teaspoon	20 mg per tablet
Main Concern	High sodium content per dose, especially with frequent use.	Lower sodium per dose, but still a consideration with frequent use.	Lower sodium per tablet, but consultation is still advised for regular use.
Suitable For Hypertensives?	Use with extreme caution and only with a doctor's supervision.	More manageable sodium load, but still requires consultation.	Low sodium per tablet, but consultation is still advised for regular use.

Safer Alternatives for Hypertensive Patients

If you have high blood pressure or are on a sodium-controlled diet, discussing alternatives with your doctor or pharmacist is crucial. Depending on the cause of your symptoms, safer options may include:

Low-Sodium Antacids: Some brands have formulations with low or no sodium. Check product labels for a low-sodium or sodium-free version.
Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Prescription medications like omeprazole (Prilosec) or esomeprazole (Nexium) reduce stomach acid production. They do not contain sodium.
H2 Blockers: These medications, such as famotidine (Pepcid AC), also reduce stomach acid production by blocking histamine receptors.
Lifestyle Changes: Many can manage heartburn through lifestyle adjustments like avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down immediately after eating.

Conclusion: Consult Your Healthcare Provider

The answer to "Can Gaviscon affect your blood pressure?" is yes, especially for those with existing cardiovascular issues or those on sodium-restricted diets. The high sodium content in some Gaviscon formulations, combined with the potential for drug interactions, necessitates careful consideration. For those with hypertension, heart failure, or kidney problems, consulting a healthcare professional is essential before regular Gaviscon use. A doctor can assess your specific health profile, recommend suitable treatment, and ensure heartburn relief doesn't negatively impact blood pressure. A comprehensive guide on the safe use of antacids can be found from authoritative sources like the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

NIH MedlinePlus: Taking Antacids

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have high blood pressure, you should consult your doctor before using Gaviscon, especially with regular or long-term use. The sodium content in many Gaviscon formulations can be a concern for individuals on sodium-restricted diets.

The sodium content varies by product. For example, a 15 mL tablespoon of Gaviscon Regular Strength Liquid contains 52 mg of sodium, while an Extra Strength tablet contains 20 mg.

No, the impact is most significant for sensitive individuals with conditions like hypertension, heart disease, or kidney problems. For most people with normal blood pressure and occasional use, the effect is likely minimal.

Yes, antacids like Gaviscon can interact with some blood pressure medications. For instance, it can decrease the absorption of certain ACE inhibitors. It's recommended to take your blood pressure medication at least 1-2 hours apart from Gaviscon to minimize this effect.

Alternatives for individuals needing to limit sodium include low-sodium antacid brands, as well as different classes of medications like H2 blockers (e.g., famotidine) and Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) (e.g., omeprazole).

An overdose of Gaviscon is not typically a major concern and may cause symptoms like bloating. However, if you experience discomfort or side effects, especially with pre-existing conditions, you should consult your doctor.

Gaviscon Double Action, both liquid and tablets, contains sodium and carries a specific warning for those with heart disease or high blood pressure, as it may worsen these conditions. Always consult your doctor before using this product if you have a cardiovascular condition.