Alka-Seltzer XS Pain Relief, 20 Tablets (Pack of 1)

Product Information

If you experience any of the following side effects, stop taking Alka-Seltzer XS and go to your nearest Accident and Emergency Department or doctor immediately: Please tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription. The intake of acetylsalicylic acid by breast-feeding patients should be avoided as there is a risk of Reye's syndrome. Regular use of high doses could impair platelet function and produce hypoprothrombinaemia in the infant if neonatal vitamin K stores are low.

There is a possible association between aspirin and Reyes syndrome when given to children. Reyessyndrome is a very rare disease, which can be fatal.For this reason aspirin should not be given tochildren under 16 years, unless on the advice of adoctor. Symptoms of paracetamol overdosage in the first 24 hours are pallor, nausea, vomiting, anorexia and abdominal pain. Liver damage may become apparent 12 to 48 hours after ingestion. Abnormalities of glucose metabolism and metabolic acidosis may occur. In severe poisoning, hepatic failure may progress to encephalopathy, coma and death. Acute renal failure with acute tubular necrosis may develop even in the absence of severe liver damage. Cardiac arrhythmias and pancreatitis have been reported. Aspirin belongs to a group of medicines known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS).Aspirin and paracetamol are both used for thetreatment of pain and reduction of fever. Aspirin alsohas anti-inflammatory properties, whilst caffeine actsas mild stimulant. Sodium hydrogen carbonate andcitric acid help create a sparkling solution. Forced diuresis should not be used since it does not enhance salicylate excretion and may cause pulmonary oedema.Salicylate poisoning is usually associated with plasma concentrations >350 mg/L (2.5 mmol/L). Most adult deaths occur in patients whose concentrations exceed 700 mg/L (5.1 mmol/L). Single doses less than 100 mg/kg are unlikely to cause serious poisoning. Acetylsalicylate is hydrolysed to its active primary metabolite salicylic acid and completely excreted in the urine, principally as glucoronic acid and glycine conjugates of salicylic acid, but also as salicylic acid itself. Salicylates are extensively bound to plasma proteins. Peak plasma levels occur at approximately 20 minutes. Following administration of acetylsalicylic acid, salicylic acid can be detected in breast milk, cerebral spinal fluid and synovial fluid. The substance crosses the placenta. Alka-Seltzer XS are effervescent tablets which dissolve in water to give a sparkling solution. Theactive substances are: aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid),paracetamol, caffeine, sodium hydrogen carbonateand citric acid. Make sure you follow the dosage instructions and do not take more than the stated dose. 4. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS

Although clinical and epidemiological evidence suggests the safety of acetylsalicylic acid for use in pregnancy, caution should be exercised when administered to pregnant patients.

Are allergic (hypersensitive) to aspirin,paracetamol, caffeine, sodium hydrogencarbonate or citric acid.

Please refer to the NHSGGC Central Prescribing Memorandum on StaffNet for advice to support the management of affected patients.Epidemiological studies in human pregnancy have shown no ill effects due to paracetamol used in the recommended dosage. Epidemiological studies on neurodevelopment in children exposed to paracetamol in utero show inconclusive results. If clinically needed, patients should follow the advice of their doctor regarding its use. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking any medicine. 3. HOW TO TAKE ALKA-SELTZER® XS The speed of absorption of paracetamol may be increased by metoclopramide or domperidone and absorption reduced by cholestyramine. Alka-Seltzer XS contains paracetamol and so other paracetamol-containing preparations should be avoided. The maximum dose of paracetamol for adults is 4g daily.