Key takeaways
Alka-Seltzer (citric acid/aspirin/sodium bicarbonate) and calcium carbonate (Tums) are both over-the-counter medications used to treat heartburn and indigestion, but they have some key differences. Alka-Seltzer is a combination of three ingredients: citric acid and sodium bicarbonate, which are antacids, and aspirin, which is a pain reliever. It comes in dissolvable tablets that you mix with water. On the other hand, calcium carbonate is a single-ingredient antacid available in chewable tablets and oral suspensions. Alka-Seltzer can also help with headaches and body aches due to its aspirin content, while calcium carbonate is sometimes used as a calcium supplement. Alka-Seltzer is not recommended for children under 12 or for pregnant women due to the aspirin, whereas calcium carbonate has specific formulations for children and is generally safe during pregnancy. Additionally, Alka-Seltzer carries a risk of stomach bleeding and ulcers, especially in older adults or those with certain health conditions, while calcium carbonate can cause constipation and, in rare cases, high blood calcium levels.
