What Should I Take for Heartburn? Tums vs. Gaviscon

Tums and Gaviscon are common over-the-counter medications that help relieve heartburn and acid reflux. While they share some similarities, they work in slightly different ways.

• Tums: Neutralizes excess stomach acid to relieve heartburn, sour stomach, and acid indigestion.
• Gaviscon: Also neutralizes stomach acid, but adds an extra layer of protection. It forms a foam barrier (or “raft”) on top of your stomach contents. This helps prevent stomach acid from backing up into the esophagus.

Uses

Both Tums and Gaviscon can relieve:

• Heartburn
• Sour stomach
• Acid indigestion

Gaviscon is also used for:

• Upset stomach associated with heartburn and acid indigestion

How to Take (Adults)

• Tums
  • Chew 1 to 4 tablets when symptoms start.
  • Works within minutes and may last up to 2 hours.
  • Avoid using for more than 2 weeks without medical advice.
• Gaviscon
  • Take 2 to 4 tablets (or teaspoons) when symptoms begin.
  • Starts working within minutes and can last up to 4 hours.
  • Avoid using for more than 2 weeks without medical advice.

Important Reminder

Neither Tums nor Gaviscon is meant for long-term use. If symptoms persist beyond two weeks, talk to a healthcare professional.

How They Work

Tums

Tums contains calcium carbonate, which quickly neutralizes excess stomach acid when it reaches your stomach. It starts working almost immediately and can provide relief for up to a few hours.

Tums is great for fast, occasional relief from heartburn. However, if you find yourself needing it often, it may be a sign of a more serious condition like chronic acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). In that case, longer-term treatment options may be more appropriate.

Gaviscon

Gaviscon contains two acid-neutralizing ingredients: aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate. These work together to balance each other’s side effects: aluminum can cause constipation, while magnesium may cause diarrhea.

What sets Gaviscon apart is an additional ingredient called sodium alginate. This forms a protective barrier on top of your stomach contents, helping to block acid from rising into your esophagus. This makes Gaviscon especially helpful for preventing the “acid splash” that causes heartburn discomfort.

Side Effects

Both Tums and Gaviscon are generally safe when used occasionally and as directed. However, they can cause mild side effects, which differ slightly between the two.

Tums

Side effects are usually mild and more likely if taken frequently or in large amounts:

• Burping
• Constipation
• Gas

Gaviscon

Side effects from Gaviscon are uncommon when used properly. Possible side effects include:

• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Nausea or vomiting

If you notice any unwanted effects while using either product, stop taking it and speak with a healthcare provider.

Warnings

While both medications are safe for short-term use, there are some important precautions to keep in mind, especially if you plan to use them regularly.

Tums

• High calcium levels (hypercalcemia): Using Tums too often can lead to too much calcium in the body, which may cause serious health issues, especially in people with kidney problems.
• Drug interactions: Tums can interfere with how your body absorbs certain medications, including:
  • Levothyroxine
  • Some antibiotics (like tetracyclines)
  • Iron supplements
  • Certain antifungal medications

Gaviscon

• Because Gaviscon contains sodium alginate, it may not be safe for:
  • People who are pregnant
  • Those on a low-sodium diet
  • Those with kidney disease
• Drug interactions: Tums can interfere with how your body absorbs certain medications, including:
  • Levothyroxine
  • Some antibiotics
  • Iron supplements
  • Certain antifungal medications

To reduce the risk of interactions, take Tums or Gaviscon at least 1 hour before or 4 hours after other medications. Always check with your healthcare provider if you're unsure.

Cost

Both Tums and Gaviscon are available over the counter at most pharmacies—no prescription needed. They come in various forms and package sizes.

• Tums: Usually costs under $15 per package.
• Gaviscon: Slightly more expensive, starting at around $15 or more.

Despite the price difference, both are affordable options for managing occasional heartburn and acid reflux.

Prices mentioned in this article are based on average retail price at major box chain pharmacy in the U.S. as of March 24, 2025.