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What are the side effects of Digeraft Syrup?

3 min read

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition that involves stomach acid frequently flowing back into the esophagus [1.3.8]. For those seeking relief, this brings up the important question: What are the side effects of Digeraft Syrup?

Quick Summary

A direct summary of Digeraft Syrup's potential side effects, covering common gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and constipation, and rarer, more severe reactions that require medical attention.

Key Points

  • Primary Use: Digeraft Syrup treats GERD, heartburn, and indigestion by neutralizing acid and forming a protective barrier over stomach contents [1.3.1, 1.4.5].

  • Common Side Effects: The most common side effects are mild and gastrointestinal, including flatulence, nausea, diarrhea, and constipation [1.2.1, 1.2.5].

  • Serious Reactions: Though very rare, allergic reactions (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing) are a serious side effect requiring immediate medical care [1.5.6].

  • Drug Interactions: It can interfere with the absorption of other medications; doses should be spaced apart by at least two hours [1.6.1, 1.7.1].

  • Medical Consultation: Always consult a doctor before use, especially if you have kidney problems, heart failure, are on a low-sodium diet, or are pregnant [1.7.1, 1.7.2, 1.7.3].

In This Article

Digeraft Syrup is a medication primarily used to treat the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), heartburn, indigestion, and general gastrointestinal distress [1.2.1, 1.3.1]. Its effectiveness stems from a combination of active ingredients, typically including Sodium Alginate, Sodium Bicarbonate, and Calcium Carbonate [1.3.5, 1.3.6]. Understanding how it works is key to understanding its side effects.

How Digeraft Syrup Works

Digeraft Syrup is known as a "raft-forming" antacid [1.4.8]. The Sodium Alginate reacts with stomach acid to create a thick, viscous gel layer that floats on top of the stomach's contents [1.3.1, 1.4.5]. This physical barrier, or "raft," prevents stomach acid from flowing back up into the esophagus, which is the primary cause of heartburn and reflux pain [1.4.1]. The Sodium Bicarbonate and Calcium Carbonate act as traditional antacids, neutralizing excess stomach acid to provide more immediate relief [1.3.2, 1.3.7]. This dual-action mechanism provides relief for up to four hours [1.3.2, 1.3.6].

Common Side Effects

Like most medications, Digeraft Syrup can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. When taken at the recommended dose, it is generally well-tolerated [1.2.2]. The most frequently reported side effects are gastrointestinal in nature and are usually mild [1.2.5].

  • Nausea and Vomiting [1.2.1]
  • Diarrhea or Constipation [1.2.5, 1.5.4]
  • Flatulence (gas) [1.2.3, 1.5.4]
  • Stomach cramps or abdominal discomfort [1.2.2, 1.5.4]
  • Bloating, especially if taken in doses higher than recommended [1.2.4]
  • Belching [1.2.2]

These effects often resolve as your body adjusts to the medication [1.4.6].

Less Common and Serious Side Effects

While rare, more serious side effects can occur and require immediate medical attention. An allergic reaction to the ingredients is possible, with symptoms including skin rash, itching, difficulty breathing, dizziness, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat [1.5.6].

Other serious but rare adverse effects may include:

  • Electrolyte Imbalances: This can manifest as low magnesium or potassium levels [1.2.2].
  • Hypercalcemia: Due to its calcium carbonate content, there's a risk of developing high calcium levels in the blood, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions [1.2.2, 1.7.3].
  • Muscle Weakness: This can be associated with musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders [1.2.2].

If you experience any of these severe symptoms, you should stop taking the product and consult your doctor immediately [1.5.6].

Comparison: Digeraft vs. Other Antacids

Feature Digeraft Syrup (Alginate) Traditional Antacids (e.g., Tums) H2 Blockers (e.g., Famotidine)
Mechanism Forms a physical raft barrier and neutralizes acid [1.4.5]. Only neutralizes existing stomach acid. Reduces the production of stomach acid.
Onset of Relief Rapid, often within minutes [1.3.7]. Rapid. Slower, may take 1-3 hours.
Duration Up to 4 hours [1.3.2]. Shorter duration. Longer duration, up to 12 hours.
Primary Use Heartburn and physical reflux of acid [1.3.1]. Mild, occasional heartburn. Frequent heartburn prevention.
Side Effects Constipation, diarrhea, bloating [1.2.5]. Constipation (with calcium/aluminum), diarrhea (with magnesium). Headache, dizziness, diarrhea.

Precautions and Drug Interactions

Before taking Digeraft Syrup, it is crucial to speak with a healthcare professional, especially if you have certain pre-existing conditions. Caution is advised for individuals with:

  • High blood pressure or congestive heart failure (due to sodium content) [1.7.2, 1.7.4].
  • Kidney disease, history of kidney stones, or high levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia) [1.7.1, 1.7.3].
  • Any known allergy to its ingredients [1.7.2].

Digeraft can also interact with other medications by affecting their absorption. It's recommended to leave a gap of at least two hours between taking Digeraft and other drugs, particularly antibiotics, iron supplements, and levothyroxine [1.6.2, 1.7.1].

Conclusion

Digeraft Syrup is an effective treatment for heartburn and acid reflux due to its unique raft-forming mechanism and acid-neutralizing properties. While it is generally safe with common side effects being mild and temporary gastrointestinal issues, awareness of potential serious reactions and drug interactions is essential. Patients with kidney or heart conditions should exercise particular caution. As with any medication, consulting a healthcare provider is the best way to ensure it is used safely and appropriately for your specific health needs.

For more information on alginate-based treatments, you can visit the NHS page on Antacids.

Frequently Asked Questions

Digeraft Syrup can be taken daily as directed by a doctor, typically after meals and at bedtime. However, you should not use the maximum dosage for more than two weeks without medical supervision [1.7.2, 1.7.4].

An overdose of Digeraft Syrup may lead to symptoms like bloating and abdominal discomfort. While unlikely to cause serious harm, you should seek medical advice if you've taken too much [1.2.2, 1.2.4].

Weight gain is not listed as a common side effect of Digeraft Syrup in the search results.

Digeraft Syrup is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy, as its components are not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream. However, you should always consult your doctor before taking any medication while pregnant [1.4.5, 1.7.4].

Relief from symptoms is typically felt rapidly, often within a few minutes of taking the suspension, though this can vary from person to person [1.3.7, 1.4.1].

Yes, caution is advised for patients with kidney disease. You should consult your doctor before taking Digeraft Syrup if you have a history of kidney problems, nephrocalcinosis (calcium deposits in kidneys), or kidney stones [1.7.1, 1.7.3].

To prevent worsening symptoms, it is advisable to avoid foods known to trigger acidity, such as spicy and high-fat foods, citrus fruits, and caffeinated or alcoholic drinks [1.7.2, 1.7.5].

References

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Medical Disclaimer

This content is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice.