Rolaids

Rolaids is an over-the-counter antacid medication used to relieve symptoms of heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach. It is manufactured by Chattem, a subsidiary of Sanofi. Rolaids is available in various forms, including tablets, soft chews, and liquid.

History

Rolaids was first introduced in the 1950s by American Home Products, which later became Wyeth. In 2006, Wyeth was acquired by Pfizer, and in 2013, the brand was sold to Chattem.

Ingredients

The active ingredients in Rolaids are typically calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide. These compounds work by neutralizing stomach acid, providing relief from the discomfort associated with heartburn and indigestion.

Mechanism of Action

Rolaids works by neutralizing excess stomach acid. The calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide react with the hydrochloric acid in the stomach to form water and other neutral compounds, thereby reducing acidity and alleviating symptoms.

Usage

Rolaids is used to treat:

• Heartburn
• Acid indigestion
• Upset stomach

It is important to follow the dosage instructions on the packaging or as directed by a healthcare provider. Overuse of antacids can lead to side effects such as constipation or diarrhea.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Rolaids may include:

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Stomach cramps

If any severe side effects occur, such as difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Precautions

Before using Rolaids, it is important to consider the following precautions:

• Consult a healthcare provider if you have a history of kidney disease, hypercalcemia, or hypophosphatemia.
• Avoid using Rolaids if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before using Rolaids.

See Also

• Antacid
• Heartburn
• Acid indigestion
• Calcium carbonate
• Magnesium hydroxide