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Alginic Acid

Published: July 26, 2026Updated: August 20, 2026

Derived from brown seaweed, Alginic Acid is used to treat GERD and heartburn symptoms, often in combination with antacids to provide relief.

Quick summary

Alginic Acid is a gastric reflux medication that creates a protective foam barrier to prevent heartburn and acid reflux symptoms.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 20, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ATC
A02BX13
RxNorm
17305
Generic
Alginic Acid
Class
atc-a02
Brands
—
Availability
rx
Lactation
unknown
Routes
oral
Forms
tablet, suspension
Regions
US, EU, CN, JP
Monitoring
—

This page is for informational purposes only.

Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.

Dosage and administration

adult (standard)tablet
Usual dose
500mg twice daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
every 12 hours
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
pediatric (standard)tablet
Usual dose
250mg twice daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
every 12 hours
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard
geriatric (standard)tablet
Usual dose
400mg daily
Maximum
consult physician
Frequency
once daily
Instructions
Follow physician instructions
Duration limits
as prescribed
Monitoring
standard

Overdose information

Important overdose information
Toxic dose: Single dose that may cause minor to moderate gastrointestinal distress
Chronic overdose: Not well established; long-term high consumption may cause intestinal obstruction
Immediate actions
Supportive care; gastric lavage if large amount ingested within 1 hour; administer fluids
Antidote
No specific antidote available(Supportive care is mainstay of treatment)
Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Special Populations

8 groups
✓

pregnancy

first trimester
safe
FDA Category
B
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

generally considered safe for use during pregnancy

Monitor

standard prenatal care

✓

pregnancy

second trimester
safe
FDA Category
B
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

safe to use as needed for GERD symptoms

Monitor

standard prenatal care

✓

pregnancy

third trimester
safe
FDA Category
B
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

safe for symptom management

Monitor

standard prenatal care

✓

lactation

breastfeeding
safe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

considered compatible with breastfeeding

Monitor

none required

⚠

pediatric_age

children 2 12 years
caution
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

use under medical supervision

Key Recommendations

use only as directed by pediatrician

Monitor

monitor for proper dosing

Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.

✓

geriatric

elderly over 65
safe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

safe for use in elderly population

Monitor

standard monitoring

✓

renal_impairment

mild to moderate
safe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

no dose adjustment required due to minimal systemic absorption

Monitor

standard monitoring

✓

hepatic_impairment

any severity
safe
FDA Category
N
Dose Adjustment

no adjustment needed

Key Recommendations

no dose adjustment required due to minimal systemic absorption

Monitor

standard monitoring

Statistics and clinical data

prescribingFDA
2023

Commonly used since

Value:1950s

Pharmaceutical use in drug formulations

drug_classWHO
2023

Drug class

Value:Alginate/Antacid

ATC Code A02EX - Other drugs for peptic ulcer and GORD

usageFDA
2023

Common uses

Value:Treatment of heartburn, GERD, as food additive (E400)

Therapeutic and food industry applications

Alginic Acid is used to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), heartburn, and symptoms of acid indigestion. It is particularly effective for symptoms that occur after meals or during sleep.

Alginic Acid works by reacting with gastric acid to form a viscous foam that floats on top of the stomach contents. This foam acts as a physical barrier, preventing stomach acid from flowing backward into the esophagus and providing relief from reflux symptoms.

Alginic Acid is often combined with aluminum and/or magnesium antacids for enhanced effectiveness. It should be taken after meals and at bedtime for optimal results. Patients with swallowing difficulties or specific medical conditions should consult a healthcare provider before use.

Contraindications

Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.

Do not use (1)

ABSOLUTEhypersensitivity

Known allergy to this medication or its components

Use caution (1)

RELATIVEpregnancy

Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment

Official drug label

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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy