Pharmacist issues warning to anyone that regularly takes Rennies or Gaviscon

A pharmacist has issued a warning to people who regularly take the likes of Rennies or Gaviscon.

Both brands are popular antacid options, typically taken to relieve indigestion and heartburn. And for many people, they can be quite a staple of their medicine cabinet or even a must-have in their bag for each day.

But as is the case with many things, it seems relying on the over-the-counter remedies too much can cause issues – or hide them.

When taken correctly, antacids are perfectly safe. But unfortunately, plenty of people don’t totally realise that they aren’t quite using them properly, as they just become a bit of a regular go-to without much thought.

A UK-based pharmacist has said there can be ‘issues’ due to this, a view echoed by the NHS.

People who over rely on the indigestion remedies may be doing more harm than good (Getty Stock)

Indigestion remedies

There are a number of types of antacids available, with Gaviscon and Rennie easily being the most popular.

Often found as a liquid or chewable tablets, they’re available without a prescription and can quickly relieve symptoms for a few hours.

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The medicines counteract the acid in your stomach, which can relieve indigestion and heartburn. The NHS also says they may help if you have acid reflux, a stomach ulcer or gastritis.

“These are readily available here in the UK over the counter and for most people, for the most part, when used short-term it’s completely fine,” Pharmacist Anum explained in a TikTok video.

Antacids are designed for short term relief (Getty Stock)

Warning against overuse

However, as the NHS explain, antacids ‘do not treat the underlying cause and long-term use is not recommended’.

The pharmacist adds that issues can arise when people become ‘overly reliant’ and are taking them ‘a couple of times a week or even more’.

Echoed by the health service, she encourages speaking to a GP if you find you are using them regularly.

“Overuse of these medications can increase the risk of side effects and also could be masking any possible symptoms,” Anum says.

The NHS says there usually aren’t any side effects if the medications are only taken occasionally and at the recommended dose.

But sometimes they can cause:

· Diarrhoea or constipation

· Wind

· Stomach cramps

· Feeling sick or vomiting

Over-reliance on antacids could mask more serious issues that are causing the symptoms of indigestion and heartburn, so it’s important to get checked by a GP to ensure you aren’t suffering from something underlying.

It’s also important to contact a GP, pharmacist or NHS 111 if you take too much of the medicine and start to feel unwell. Always check the dosage instructions and guidelines before using medication.