Key takeaways
Alka-Seltzer (citric acid/aspirin/sodium bicarbonate) and Rolaids (calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide) are both over-the-counter medications used to relieve heartburn and indigestion, but they have some key differences. Alka-Seltzer combines three active ingredients: citric acid and sodium bicarbonate, which are antacids, and aspirin, which is a pain reliever. This makes it useful for treating heartburn with headache or body aches. In contrast, Rolaids contains only antacids—calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide—making it solely focused on neutralizing stomach acid without any pain relief. Alka-Seltzer is taken by dissolving tablets in water, while Rolaids are chewable tablets. Alka-Seltzer is not recommended for pregnant women due to the aspirin content, whereas Rolaids may be safer during pregnancy, though you should still consult your healthcare professional. Additionally, Alka-Seltzer carries a risk of stomach bleeding due to the aspirin, while Rolaids can affect the absorption of other medications and may cause high blood calcium levels in people with certain health conditions.
