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Compare Zegerid vs. Tums

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

Key takeaways

Zegerid (omeprazole/sodium bicarbonate) and calcium carbonate (Tums) are both used to treat heartburn, but they have several differences. Zegerid is a combination of a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and an antacid, while calcium carbonate is just an antacid. Zegerid is available both over-the-counter (OTC) and by prescription, and it treats conditions like stomach ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), in addition to heartburn. Calcium carbonate is available OTC and is mainly used for heartburn and indigestion. Zegerid needs to be taken on an empty stomach and can take 1 to 4 days to work, whereas calcium carbonate works within minutes. Zegerid can cause serious side effects like severe diarrhea and kidney problems, while calcium carbonate's side effects are usually milder, like constipation. Lastly, Zegerid contains sodium, which might not be suitable for people on a low-sodium diet, while calcium carbonate can raise calcium levels and might not be suitable for people with high calcium levels.

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Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate)
Calcium carbonate
Zegerid (omeprazole / sodium bicarbonate)
Calcium carbonate
Summary of Zegerid vs. Tums
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
Calcium carbonate is an antacid. It's mainly used to relieve symptoms of acid reflux, such as heartburn and indigestion, for adults and children. Sometimes, providers might prescribe it as a supplement to prevent calcium deficiency. Calcium carbonate is available over the counter in several different formulations, including chewable tablets and oral solutions. Side effects from calcium carbonate are rare, but some people have reported constipation.
Indications of Zegerid vs. Tums
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

•Sour or upset stomach
Pros and Cons of Zegerid vs. Tums
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

•Works within minutes to treat heartburn symptoms

•Chewable tablets come in many different flavors for better taste

•Available as a lower-cost generic

•Available over the counter

Cons

•Shouldn't be used for longer than 2 weeks without speaking to a healthcare provider

•Not the best option if you have high levels of calcium in your body

•Can raise the risk of kidney stones in some people

•Might need to take multiple tablets several times throughout the day
Common Side Effects of Zegerid vs. Tums
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

•Constipation
Warnings of Zegerid vs. Tums
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

•High blood calcium levels

•Interactions with other medications
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Compare Zegerid vs. Tums

Key takeaways

Summary of Zegerid vs. Tums

Indications of Zegerid vs. Tums

Pros and Cons of Zegerid vs. Tums

Common Side Effects of Zegerid vs. Tums

Warnings of Zegerid vs. Tums

Prices with our coupons for Zegerid vs. Tums

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