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Compare Zegerid vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Zegerid (omeprazole/sodium bicarbonate) and Rolaids (calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide) are both used to manage stomach acid, but they have several differences. Zegerid combines a proton pump inhibitor (omeprazole) and an antacid (sodium bicarbonate) to lower stomach acid production and protect the omeprazole from being broken down by stomach acid. It is available both over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription, and it treats conditions like stomach ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and erosive esophagitis. On the other hand, Rolaids is an OTC antacid that provides quick relief for heartburn and indigestion by neutralizing stomach acid with calcium and magnesium. Unlike Zegerid, Rolaids is not meant for long-term use and does not treat more serious conditions. Zegerid must be taken on an empty stomach, while Rolaids can be taken as needed at the first sign of discomfort. Additionally, Zegerid has a higher risk of side effects like bone fractures and low magnesium levels with long-term use, whereas Rolaids can cause high blood calcium levels, especially in people with kidney problems.

drug combination

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  • Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate)
    Rolaids
  • Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate)
    Rolaids

  • Summary of Zegerid vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

    Summary for PPI / Antacid

    Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) is a combination medication used to treat conditions related to having too much stomach acid. This medication is typically taken by mouth once daily. But don't take it longer than what your provider recommends. Doing so raises your risk for side effects, such as bone fractures or low magnesium levels. Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) is available as a powder that can be made into a liquid suspension for people who have trouble swallowing pills.

    Summary for Antacid

    Rolaids is a combination medication containing calcium and magnesium. It provides fast symptom relief for heartburn and indigestion.

  • Indications of Zegerid vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

    Indications for

    Prescription-strength Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) capsules and suspension:

    •Stomach ulcer
    •Duodenal (first part of small intestine) ulcer
    •Heartburn and other symptoms related gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
    •Erosive esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus) due to GERD
    •Lower the risk of stomach bleeding in hospitalized people (suspension only)

    OTC Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) capsules:

    •Frequent heartburn

    Konvomep (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) suspension:

    •Stomach ulcer
    •Lower the risk of stomach bleeding in hospitalized people
    Indications for
    •Heartburn
    •Indigestion
    •Relief of sour stomach

  • Pros and Cons of Zegerid vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

    Pros and Const for PPI / Antacid
    Pros
    •Available over the counter
    •Packet form is a good option if you have trouble swallowing pills
    •Typically taken once daily
    •Available as lower-cost generics
    •Longer-lasting relief than some other medications for heartburn
    Cons
    •Takes 1 to 4 days to ease heartburn
    •Has sodium, so not a good option for people on sodium-restricted diets
    •Typically has to be taken on an empty stomach before meals for best results
    •Can interact with other medications
    •Long-term use can weaken your bones and cause low vitamin B12 and magnesium
    Pros and Const for Antacid
    Pros
    •Provides fast relief for heartburn and indigestion
    •Can buy over the counter (OTC), without a prescription
    •There are tablets and soft chews in a variety of flavors (Rolaids brand)
    Cons
    •Doesn't last as long as other heartburn medications, like famotidine (Pepcid) and omeprazole (Prilosec)
    •Not meant for long-term use
    •Interacts with the absorption of some other medications, such as certain antibiotics

  • Common Side Effects of Zegerid vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (3-7%)
    •Stomach pain (2-5%)
    •Diarrhea (3-4%)
    •Nausea (2-4%)
    •Gas (3%)
    •Vomiting (2-3%)

    Please note: These side effects were reported in clinical trials by people who took omeprazole only. The side effects you experience from Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate) might differ.

    Common Side Effects for

    See Risks and Warnings

  • Warnings of Zegerid vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

    Common Side Effects for
    •Follow up with provider needed
    •Kidney damage
    •Severe skin reactions
    •High sodium content
    •Acid and base out of balance (Milk-alkali syndrome)
    •Severe diarrhea
    •Bone fractures
    •Lupus
    •Interactions with other medications
    •Low vitamin B12 and magnesium levels
    •Small growths in the stomach
    Common Side Effects for
    •Medication interactions
    •High blood calcium

  • Prices with our coupons for Zegerid vs. Calcium carbonate/magnesium hydroxide

    Learn more about Zegerid
    Learn more about Rolaids

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