Alka-Seltzer is a popular brand-name line of over-the-counter remedies. Original Alka-Seltzer, now called Alka-Seltzer Original Flavor, contains aspirin and two antacids to provide pain relief. Doses are taken every four hours by placing the signature Alka-Seltzer effervescent in a four-ounce glass of water. While antacids are relatively free from side effects, aspirin has risks and so should be used cautiously at home.
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Alka-Seltzer, Alka-Seltzer Original Flavor
Aspirin, anhydrous citric acid, sodium bicarbonate
Alka-Seltzer relieves minor pain, aches, and fever.
Analgesic, antipyretic, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), salicylate, antacid
Effervescent tablet
By mouth
The manufacturer markets Alka-Seltzer Original Flavor as a pain reliever and fever reducer appropriate for headaches, minor aches and pains, muscle pain, toothache, menstrual pain, colds, and mild fever. Although not indicated on the package, the antacids in Alka-Seltzer can help with heartburn or indigestion, but the drug is not intended to treat those conditions. Use Alka-Seltzer Heartburn Relief instead.
Effervescent tablets
325 mg aspirin per tablet (Original Flavor) plus the antacids anhydrous citric acid and sodium bicarbonate
For pain relief or fever: two original flavor effervescent tablets every four hours as needed
Alka-Seltzer
116 tablets effervescent box
Alka-Seltzer
12 tablets effervescent box
Alka-Seltzer
24 tablets effervescent box
Alka-Seltzer
36 tablets effervescent box
Follow the instructions printed on the package.
Dissolve the tablets fully in four ounces of water. Drink all of this mixture right away.
The maximum daily dosage for Alka-Seltzer Original Flavor is eight daily for adults younger than 60 and three daily for adults older than 60.
Store Alka-Seltzer Original Flavor at room temperature. Protect from excessive heat.
Take a dose as soon as you remember.
If you take a missed dose, the dosing schedule will reset. Don’t take another dose for four hours.
Do not use extra tablets to make up for a missed dose.
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to aspirin, sodium bicarbonate, or anhydrous citric acid.
Get medical advice from a healthcare professional before taking Alka-Seltzer Original Flavor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on a sodium-restricted diet.
Talk to a doctor before giving Alka-Seltzer to a child 12 years of age or younger.
Talk to a doctor first if you are taking any prescription drugs or have:
Diabetes
Arthritis
Stomach problems, including bleeding or ulcers
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Liver problems
Asthma
A bleeding disorder
Stop taking Alka-Seltzer Original Flavor and see a healthcare professional if:
Pain persists for longer than 10 days
Fever lasts for longer than three days
Stomach problems occur
New symptoms appear
Ringing in the ears or other hearing issues are experienced
Alka-Seltzer products containing aspirin should never be given to children or adolescents with a viral or suspected viral infection.
Ensure any healthcare professional who treats you knows you are taking aspirin products, particularly before medical or dental procedures.
To avoid possible drug interactions, tell any doctor who treats you that you are using Alka-Seltzer.
The antacids in Alka-Seltzer can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb many prescription drugs, so check with a doctor before using Alka-Seltzer.
Do not use other NSAIDs, including aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or prescription medications for arthritis.
Talk to a doctor before taking Alka-Seltzer if you’re taking blood thinners or medications that treat diabetes, glaucoma, or gout.
Avoid alcohol when taking aspirin products.
Serious side effects
Talk to a doctor if you notice any signs or symptoms of a possible serious side effect, including:
Severe stomach pain
Bloody or black, tarry stools
Bloody vomit or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Feeling faint
Unusual bleeding, bruising, weakness, pale skin
Ringing in your ears that will not stop, problems with hearing
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Less serious side effects
Mild stomach pain or heartburn
Nausea
Slight ringing in the ears
Alka-Seltzer Original Flavor drug information, DailyMed (NIH National Library of Medicine)
Salicylic acid (aspirin), StatPearls
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