Tums: What You Need To Know About Dosage, Safety, and Side Effects

Author Name : Dr. Ramneek Sabharwal

Family Physician

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Tums is a brand name for an antacid medication that treats heartburn and other gastrointestinal issues. The active ingredient, calcium carbonate, is actually found in many over-the-counter medications. While Tums is generally considered safe to use, it’s important for medical professionals to understand the dosages, safety precautions, and potential side effects associated with this medication.

What is Tums?

Tums is the brand name for a group of medications used to treat heartburn and indigestion. The active ingredient in Tums is calcium carbonate, which works by neutralizing stomach acid. Tums are available over-the-counter in a variety of formulations, including chewable tablets, effervescent tablets, and liquid gels.Tums are generally safe and well-tolerated, but side effects can occur. The most common side effects of Tums include constipation, diarrhea, and gas. More serious side effects are rare but can include kidney stones and allergic reactions. When used as directed, Tums are usually safe for pregnant women and children over the age of 4.

Tums dosage

Most adults and children over the age of 12 can take Tums as needed for heartburn or indigestion. The recommended dosage for Tums is 1-2 tablets chewed thoroughly and swallowed with or without water, as needed.

Safety and side effects of Tums

Tums are a very safe medication with few side effects. The most common side effect is constipation, which can be easily managed by drinking plenty of fluids and eating a high-fiber diet. Diarrhea, bloating, and gas are also possible side effects. Tums may be taken with food or on an empty stomach. If Tums upsets your stomach, it is best to take it with food.Tums is safe for most people when used as directed. However, side effects can occur. Rare but serious side effects of Tums include: kidney stones, osteoporosis, and vomiting blood.

Tums Dosage in Pregnency

Tums is a popular antacid medication that is used to treat heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach.  Tums is generally safe for pregnant women to take. The recommended dosage of Tums for pregnant women is 250-500 mg chewable tablets, taken up to four times per day as needed. Tums should be taken with food or milk to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Some common side effects of Tums include constipation, diarrhea, gas, and bloating. These side effects are typically mild and resolve on their own. The safety of Tums during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established.

Tums Extra Strength Dosage

When it comes to Tums, there is no one-size-fits-all dosage. The amount of Tums you need to take depends on a number of factors, including your age, weight, and the severity of your symptoms. For adults and children over the age of 12, the recommended starting dose is two tablets. If this does not relieve your patient's symptoms, you can increase the dose by one tablet until there symptoms are relieved. Do not prescribe more than six tablets in a 24-hour period. As with any medication, there is always the potential for side effects. The most common side effects associated with Tums are heartburn, indigestion, gas, bloating, and constipation. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own after a few days.

Tums Dosage for Infants

If you are treating your infant's occasional tummy ache with Tums, it is important to be aware of the correct dosage. The recommended dose for infants is 1/4 to 1/2 of a chewable tablet, depending on their age and weight. This should be given once or twice daily as needed for relief. It is also important to be aware of potential side effects when giving Tums to infants. The most common side effect is constipation, so be sure to give them plenty of fluids along with the Tums. Diarrhea can also occur, although this is usually not severe and goes away on its own after a few days. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, Tums is a medication with many uses and benefits. It can be used safely to treat heartburn and indigestion in adults. Additionally, common side effects such as headache, constipation and muscle pain may occur. As medical professionals we must remain up-to-date on the latest information about medications such as Tums to ensure safe and effective use of this drug for our patients.


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