OTC Products: Digestive Health

Pharmacists play a critical role in helping patients navigate the wide array of OTC digestive health products to find the most appropriate relief for their specific symptoms. Whether a patient is dealing with the discomfort of trapped gas, the onset of motion sickness, or the burning sensation of heartburn, professional guidance ensures the selection of a product with the correct active ingredient and strength.

Pharmacists also serve as a vital safety check, assessing for preexisting health conditions or potential interactions with prescription medications before a patient begins a new treatment.

Best for Fast Gas and Bloating Relief

Gas-X Ultimate Strength Softgels

Simethicone 500 mg

Manufactured by Haleon

Gas-X Ultimate Strength represents the brand’s highest strength of simethicone available for the fast relief of gas, bloating, and general abdominal discomfort. This formulation is twice as strong as a single Gas-X Maximum Strength softgel, providing a potent option for those with severe symptoms.

• The active ingredient, simethicone, is an antigas agent that works by breaking up gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines.
• Once the trapped gas is broken down, the body can eliminate it naturally, providing rapid relief from pressure and bloating.
• Users should always use Gas-X products only as directed and consult a health care professional if they are uncertain whether the product is appropriate for them.

Best for Targeted Nausea and Motion Sickness

Pepto Nausea Motion Sickness Tablets

Meclizine HCl 25 mg

Manufactured by Procter & Gamble

Pepto Nausea Motion Sickness is specifically formulated to treat and prevent the nausea, dizziness, and vomiting associated with travel or motion-inducing activities. It comes in a convenient, travel-ready vial, making it ideal for car rides, flights, or amusement park visits.

• As an antiemetic, meclizine hydrochloride works by blocking signals to the brain that trigger nausea and vomiting. For optimal prevention, the tablet should be taken 1/2 to 1 hour before traveling.
• This formula is designed to be less drowsy than dimenhydrinate solutions, allowing users to remain present and enjoy their journey.
• The recommended dosage for adults and children 12 years and older is 1 to 2 tablets once daily, or as directed by a physician.

Best for Fast-Acting Heartburn Relief

TUMS Chewy Bites

Calcium carbonate USP 750 mg

Manufactured by Haleon

TUMS Chewy Bites provide extra-strength relief for heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach in a format that moves away from traditional chalky tablets. These chews feature a tasty outer shell and a soft center, designed to go to work in seconds by neutralizing stomach acid at the source.

• The active ingredient, calcium carbonate, provides multibenefit relief for symptoms associated with upset stomach and indigestion.
• Adults and children 12 years and older should chew or crush 2 to 4 tablets completely as symptoms occur.
• Users are cautioned not to exceed 6 tablets in a 24-hour period (the same dosage applies to pregnant individuals) and should not use the maximum dosage for more than 2 weeks without medical advice.