Zegerid vs. Tums for Heartburn: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

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)

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calcium carbonate

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Summary for Zegerid

Prescription or over-the-counter

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.

Indications for Zegerid

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

Pros and Cons for Zegerid

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

Common Side Effects for Zegerid

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.

Warnings for Zegerid

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

Summary for Tums

Over-the-counter

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 for Tums

Heartburn
Indigestion
Sour or upset stomach

Pros and Cons for Tums

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