Heartburn and acid indigestion are common discomforts. For quick relief, many turn to over-the-counter antacids like Tums. Proper usage is important for safe management of these occasional digestive issues.
What Tums Are and How They Work
Tums products contain calcium carbonate as their primary active ingredient. This antacid works by directly neutralizing stomach acid. When calcium carbonate encounters stomach acid, it undergoes a chemical reaction that reduces overall acidity. This neutralization helps alleviate the burning sensation of heartburn. Relief is typically rapid, beginning within minutes of consumption.
Safe Dosage and Frequency
Always follow the recommended dosage instructions on the product label. For adults and children 12 years and older, chew two to four tablets when symptoms arise. The maximum number of tablets that can be taken in a 24-hour period depends on the product’s specific strength.
For Tums Extra Strength 750 mg, do not exceed ten tablets daily. For Tums Ultra Strength 1000 mg, the limit is seven tablets in 24 hours. Pregnant individuals often have a lower maximum daily dose, such as five tablets for Ultra Strength. Do not use the maximum dosage for more than two weeks unless advised by a healthcare professional.
Important Safety Considerations
While Tums provides relief for occasional heartburn, be aware of potential effects and interactions. Temporary effects can include constipation, gas, burping, nausea, abdominal pain, or a decreased appetite.
Using Tums excessively or for extended periods can lead to more serious concerns. High levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia) can occur, leading to symptoms like increased thirst, frequent urination, confusion, or unusual weakness. Long-term, excessive intake can also contribute to milk-alkali syndrome, which affects kidney function and calcium balance. Kidney stones are another potential outcome from taking too much calcium carbonate.
Tums can also interfere with the absorption of certain medications. This includes some antibiotics, such as tetracyclines and quinolones, as well as thyroid hormones like levothyroxine. It is generally recommended to separate the intake of Tums from these medications by several hours to avoid reducing their effectiveness. Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as kidney disease, a history of kidney stones, or high calcium levels should consult a healthcare provider before using Tums. Persistent or severe heartburn symptoms, or if symptoms do not improve after two weeks of use, warrant medical evaluation.