Can You Take Alka-Seltzer While Pregnant?

Pregnancy brings a host of new experiences — some wonderful, some uncomfortable. Among the latter, heartburn, nausea, and indigestion can be especially challenging, often leading people to seek out relief.

One common over-the-counter remedy that may come to mind is Alka-Seltzer. But when you're pregnant, what you put into your body matters more than ever.

So, is Alka-Seltzer safe during pregnancy? Let’s explore this question in detail, including which products are safe, which aren’t, and some alternative remedies that may work better for you during pregnancy.

What Is Alka-Seltzer?

Alka-Seltzer is a well-known antacid and pain reliever that has been around for decades. It comes in a fizzy tablet form and is typically used to relieve heartburn, acid indigestion, upset stomach, and even headaches or body aches.

The active ingredients in many Alka-Seltzer formulations include aspirin, sodium bicarbonate, and citric acid — each serving a distinct role in providing relief [*].

But with all the ingredients packed into these fizzy tablets, it’s important to know which ones are safe to use during pregnancy and which should be avoided.

Can You Take Alka-Seltzer While Pregnant?

It is generally not recommended to take Alka-Seltzer products that contain aspirin while pregnant. However, there are still a handful of Alka-Seltzer products that contain no aspirin, caffeine, or pseudoephedrine, which are safe to take in moderate amounts during pregnancy [*].

During pregnancy, certain medications — especially over-the-counter remedies like Alka-Seltzer — can have unintended side effects on both the mother and the developing baby. In the first and third trimesters, medications that are absorbed into the bloodstream can potentially increase the risk of birth defects or complications like preterm labor [*]. Here are a few to know:

• Aspirin: One of the key ingredients in some Alka-Seltzer products, is generally discouraged during pregnancy due to its potential link to complications such as bleeding disorders, impaired kidney function, or delayed labor. It can also affect fetal development when used in high doses [*].
• Sodium Bicarbonate: While an effective antacid, it should also be used cautiously during pregnancy due to its high sodium content. Excess sodium can lead to fluid retention and increase the risk of high blood pressure [*].
• Citric Acid: Typically safe in small doses, but the high sodium content in many Alka-Seltzer products may still be a concern [*].

As with any medication, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any Alka-Seltzer product during pregnancy.

Which Alka-Seltzer Products Are Safe During Pregnancy?

While some Alka-Seltzer products are not safe for pregnant individuals, others may offer relief without causing harm. If you’re dealing with an upset stomach or indigestion during pregnancy, it’s possible that there are Alka-Seltzer products that are safe to take depending on your unique health profile and stage of pregnancy.

Alka-Seltzer Heartburn Relief (Without Aspirin)

The version of Alka-Seltzer that does not contain aspirin but still includes sodium bicarbonate and citric acid may be considered safe in moderation. These products are typically used for heartburn, acid indigestion, or an upset stomach.

However, you must still monitor your sodium intake, as the high sodium content may lead to water retention or increased blood pressure [*].

Always consult your healthcare provider to determine if this is an appropriate option for you.

Alka-Seltzer Gold

Alka-Seltzer Gold is another version that contains sodium bicarbonate and citric acid but is free from aspirin. This formulation is considered to be somewhat safer for pregnant individuals because it lacks aspirin, which is typically avoided during pregnancy.

Again, the primary concern here is its sodium content, so it's important to use it sparingly [*].

Which Alka-Seltzer Products Are Not Recommended During Pregnancy?

Many Alka-Seltzer products should be avoided during pregnancy, especially those containing aspirin or high sodium levels. Here’s a breakdown of products you should steer clear of:

Alka-Seltzer Original (With Aspirin)

This product contains aspirin, sodium bicarbonate, and citric acid. Aspirin is a common pain-relieving drug, but it is not recommended during pregnancy due to its potential risks, such as increased bleeding risk and adverse effects on the baby’s organ development, especially in the later stages of pregnancy [*].

Alka-Seltzer Extra Strength (With Aspirin)

Similar to the Original, the Extra Strength version contains aspirin as well. However, it contains 500 mg of aspirin per tablet compared to the 325 mg per tablet that Alka-Seltzer Original contains, making it even more avoidable [*][*].

Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold & Flu (With Aspirin and Other Ingredients)

Not only does this version contain aspirin, but it may also include other ingredients like pseudoephedrine, which can be harmful during pregnancy. Medications used for cold and flu symptoms often contain substances that could cause dehydration, high blood pressure, or even birth defects, depending on the trimester [*].

Alka-Seltzer Hangover Relief

Much like the other forms of Alka-Seltzer listed above, Alka-Seltzer Hangover Relief contains aspirin. However, it also contains 130 mg of caffeine in a two-tablet dose. Caffeine should be avoided during pregnancy because consuming large amounts can potentially lead to a number of health issues and even miscarriage [*][*].

Pregnancy-Safe Alka-Seltzer Alternatives

If you’re looking for ways to relieve symptoms like heartburn or indigestion during pregnancy but want to avoid Alka-Seltzer, here are some alternatives to consider:

Tums or Rolaids (Calcium Carbonate)

Calcium carbonate is a safe and widely recommended alternative for heartburn relief during pregnancy. Both Tums and Rolaids provide a simple, effective way to neutralize stomach acid without the risks associated with sodium bicarbonate or aspirin. However, it is still important to practice moderation and consult your doctor about dosage [*].

Pepcid

Pepcid (famotidine) is a safe and commonly recommended option for heartburn relief during pregnancy. This medication works by reducing stomach acid production, helping to alleviate discomfort without the risks associated with other treatments like sodium bicarbonate or aspirin.

Gaviscon (Alginic Acid and Sodium Bicarbonate)

Gaviscon is another safe alternative for heartburn relief. It forms a protective barrier on top of the stomach contents, preventing acid reflux. It contains alginic acid and sodium bicarbonate but is often recommended for pregnant individuals because of its lower sodium content compared to Alka-Seltzer [*].

Baking Soda and Water

A simple and safe option for occasional heartburn relief during pregnancy is a mix of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and water. Just be cautious about the amount of baking soda used, as it can cause fluid retention and high sodium levels if overused. It’s recommended to mix half of a teaspoon of baking soda into a 4-ounce glass of water [*][*].

Additional Ways to Prevent Heartburn During Pregnancy

While Alka-Seltzer might be tempting when you’re suffering from heartburn or indigestion during pregnancy, there are many natural ways to prevent these symptoms from occurring in the first place:

• Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals: Large meals can lead to heartburn and indigestion. Try eating smaller meals throughout the day to prevent excessive pressure on your stomach [*].
• Avoid Trigger Foods: Some foods are more likely to cause heartburn during pregnancy. Spicy, fatty, and acidic foods (like citrus or tomatoes) are common culprits. Keep a food diary to identify what triggers your symptoms, and avoid those foods [*].
• Elevate Your Head While Sleeping: Sleeping with your head slightly elevated can help prevent stomach acid from rising up into your esophagus while you sleep. Use extra pillows or invest in an adjustable bed if necessary [*].

When to See Your Doctor

While occasional heartburn or an upset stomach is common during pregnancy, you should seek medical attention if:

• You experience severe or persistent pain or discomfort that doesn’t go away with typical remedies.
• Your symptoms interfere with your ability to eat, sleep, or perform daily activities.
• You develop other unusual symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, or chest pain, as these could indicate more serious conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or preeclampsia.

The Bottom Line

Alka-Seltzer is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to its potential risks, especially those involving aspirin and sodium content.

However, there are alternatives like Tums, Rolaids, and Gaviscon that are safer for heartburn relief during pregnancy.

Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication, pregnancy is a time when it’s better to be cautious when it comes to over-the-counter remedies.

By considering safe alternatives and lifestyle changes, you can keep discomfort to a minimum while prioritizing your health and the health of your growing baby.

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