Tums, an over-the-counter antacid, provides relief from heartburn, sour stomach, and acid indigestion. It is a frequent choice for quick relief. When used as directed, Tums is generally safe for occasional use.
How Tums Work
The active ingredient in Tums is calcium carbonate, derived from natural sources. It functions as an antacid by directly neutralizing stomach acid. When calcium carbonate encounters stomach acid, a chemical reaction occurs, producing calcium chloride, water, and carbon dioxide. This process rapidly reduces stomach acidity, alleviating heartburn and indigestion symptoms.
Recognizing Overdose Symptoms
Consuming excessive Tums can lead to hypercalcemia, an accumulation of calcium in the body. Mild symptoms include constipation, nausea, and stomach upset. Individuals might also experience belching, dry mouth, increased urination, or loss of appetite. Headaches, fatigue, muscle weakness, and bone pain are possible indicators.
More severe symptoms can develop with higher calcium levels or prolonged overuse. These may include confusion, changes in mental state, or irritability. Serious heart rhythm disturbances, kidney stones, and kidney damage are potential complications. In extreme cases, severe hypercalcemia can lead to muscle twitching, increased thirst, and even a comatose state.
Understanding Overdose Causes
An overdose of Tums primarily occurs from consuming excessive calcium carbonate. Exceeding the recommended daily dosage or prolonged misuse are common reasons for this buildup. While a single large intake might cause acute symptoms, long-term overuse often leads to more severe health issues.
One consequence of chronic, excessive calcium and absorbable alkali intake is Milk-Alkali Syndrome (MAS). This condition is characterized by hypercalcemia, metabolic alkalosis (an imbalance in the body’s pH), and renal dysfunction. Pre-existing conditions, particularly kidney issues, can increase susceptibility to calcium buildup and MAS, as kidneys may struggle to process excess calcium effectively. Even daily calcium intake of less than 2 grams can sometimes contribute to MAS in susceptible individuals.
Responding to Suspected Overdose
If mild symptoms like constipation or stomach upset occur after taking Tums, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider. However, if someone exhibits severe symptoms such as mental confusion, irregular heartbeat, or signs of kidney problems, immediate emergency medical attention is necessary. In such situations, contact your local emergency number or the national Poison Help hotline (1-800-222-1222) for immediate guidance. Provide details about the person’s age, weight, the product ingested, the amount, and when it was swallowed.
To prevent an overdose, always adhere to the recommended dosage on the Tums label. For most adults, the maximum daily intake of calcium carbonate from Tums is around 7,500 mg, depending on product strength. Consider calcium intake from other sources, such as dietary supplements or fortified foods, as total daily calcium intake from all sources should not exceed 2,500 mg. Consulting a healthcare professional before prolonged Tums use, especially if underlying health conditions exist, can help ensure safe and appropriate use.