Algicid JR

• Treatment and symptomatic relief of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), including heartburn and acid regurgitation.
• Relief of symptoms associated with gastric and duodenal ulcers caused by acid-peptic disease.
• Management of acid indigestion and dyspepsia related to gastric acid irritation.
• Adjunct therapy in gastritis.
• Off-label use includes relief of reflux symptoms during pregnancy.

• Adults and adolescents (12 years and older):
• Oral dose: 10–20 mL of suspension or equivalent tablet formulation, 3 to 4 times daily, preferably after meals and at bedtime.
• Pediatrics (under 12 years):
• Safety and efficacy not well established; use only under medical supervision.
• Elderly:
• Standard adult dosing; no adjustment typically needed.
• Special populations (renal/hepatic impairment):
• No specific dosage adjustment required; caution advised in renal impairment due to magnesium content.
• Administration:
• Suspension should be shaken well before use.
• Take orally, preferably after meals and at bedtime for optimal effect.

Sodium alginate and magnesium alginate form a viscous gel-like barrier or “raft” on the surface of the gastric contents. This raft physically prevents acid reflux into the esophagus by floating on top of the stomach contents. Additionally, magnesium alginate exhibits antacid properties by neutralizing gastric acid. Together, they reduce acidity and protect the esophageal mucosa from irritation caused by acid reflux, thus alleviating symptoms such as heartburn and acid regurgitation.

• Absorption: Minimal to no systemic absorption due to high molecular weight and polymeric structure.
• Distribution: Acts locally within the gastrointestinal tract.
• Metabolism: Not metabolized; excreted unchanged in feces.
• Elimination: Eliminated unchanged through the gastrointestinal tract.
• Onset of action: Rapid, typically within minutes after oral administration.
• Duration of action: Approximately 1 to 2 hours depending on gastric emptying.

• Pregnancy: Considered relatively safe due to local action and negligible systemic absorption. No known teratogenic effects; widely used to treat reflux symptoms during pregnancy.
• Lactation: Safety during breastfeeding not fully established but expected to be safe due to minimal systemic absorption and local effect.

• Primary Therapeutic Class: Antacid and mucosal protective agent
• Subclass: Alginate-based reflux suppressant

• Hypersensitivity to sodium alginate, magnesium alginate, or any excipients in the formulation.
• Severe renal impairment or conditions associated with hypermagnesemia (due to magnesium content).
• Known allergy to any component of the medication.

• Use caution in patients with renal impairment to avoid magnesium accumulation and possible toxicity.
• Prolonged or excessive use may alter electrolyte balance.
• Discontinue if hypersensitivity or allergic reactions occur.
• Not intended to replace medical evaluation for persistent or severe GERD or dyspepsia symptoms.
• Use with caution in patients on magnesium-restricted diets.

• Common: Mild gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, flatulence, and diarrhea (attributed to magnesium).
• Uncommon: Constipation, abdominal discomfort.
• Rare: Hypersensitivity reactions such as rash, pruritus, or angioedema.
• Side effects are typically mild and dose-dependent.

• May reduce absorption of certain oral medications (e.g., tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolones, iron supplements) by chelation or altered gastric pH; recommend separating administration by at least 2 hours.
• No significant interactions with CYP450 enzymes.
• No significant interactions with alcohol.

• Alginate-based antacids are recognized as safe and effective first-line agents for mild to moderate reflux symptoms in current GERD management guidelines.
• Recent updates emphasize monitoring magnesium levels in high-risk populations such as patients with renal impairment or the elderly.
• WHO and other authorities recommend use as over-the-counter symptomatic relief with caution in special populations.

• Store at controlled room temperature: 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Protect from moisture and direct sunlight.
• Shake well before use if in suspension form.
• Do not freeze.
• Keep container tightly closed when not in use.