If you often reach for over-the-counter antacids when your stomach is causing you discomfort, you need to be aware of some potentially serious side effects – severe enough that even the FDA has taken note. Recently, the FDA issued a warning regarding the potentially life-threatening consequences of taking over-the-counter antacids containing aspirin. It seems that these widely used remedies for acid reflux and indigestion (such as Alka Seltzer and Bromo Seltzer) can cause stomach and intestinal bleeding severe enough to require a blood transfusion.
While this side effect is not very common (just eight new cases recorded by the FDA in the past seven years), the consequences of stomach and intestinal bleeding are severe enough to warrant a pause before taking another aspirin-filled antacid. This is particularly true for those more likely to develop severe bleeding from drugs containing aspirin, such as older people, those with a history of stomach ulcers or bleeding problems, people who take blood-thinning drugs, steroids (like prednisone), other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen or naproxen), or those who drink three or more alcoholic beverages a day. And it’s important to note that these risk factors apply to any medication containing aspirin, not just antacids.
It’s worth remembering that back in 2009, the FDA issued a similar warning for aspirin and other NSAIDs, stating that these drugs raised the risk of intestinal bleeding. However, this did not stop millions of Americans from continuing to take aspirin and other NSAIDs regularly. Similarly, many people will still continue to opt for the relief provided by over-the-counter antacids.
One of the reasons this side effect is so concerning is that many people may not even realize that there’s aspirin in their antacid. When taking medication to ease stomach-related symptoms, you might not expect a dose of something as typically irritating to the stomach as aspirin, which is known to cause nausea, heartburn, stomach pain, and vomiting in addition to stomach bleeding. This surprise factor could make it all too easy for someone with one or more risk factors for intestinal bleeding to put themselves in danger unknowingly.
A wiser choice might be to avoid over-the-counter antacids altogether. Having to rely on these medications to settle your stomach means something is not quite right, and you should address the issue immediately through safer, natural remedies rather than merely masking the symptoms with potentially dangerous drugs. A healthier diet, probiotics, and digestive enzymes can all contribute to a more stable and comfortable stomach without the risks of antacid use.
For those times when you’re truly desperate for some Alka Seltzer, make sure to choose Alka Seltzer Gold. It contains all the stomach-soothing ingredients you need, without including a dose of aspirin.
Next time you feel the urge to reach for an antacid to ease your stomach discomfort, stop and think about the risks. Consult with your doctor or a medical professional to discuss alternative, natural remedies to promote better stomach health, and consider making changes to your diet and lifestyle. It’s always better to prevent the problem entirely than to rely on over-the-counter medications that could potentially cause serious harm to your body. Don’t let something as common as antacids put your well-being on the line.
