Pricing
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Rafcon is indicated for:
Pharmacology
Sodium Alginate + Sodium Bicarbonate + Calcium Carbonate is a combination of two antacids (Calcium Carbonate and Sodium Bicarbonate) and an alginate (Sodium Alginate). The suspension works in two ways, neutralizing excess stomach acid to relieve the pain and discomfort, and forming a protective barrier over the stomach contents to soothe the burning pain in your chest. Its mode of action is physical and doesn't depend on absorption into the systemic circulation.
The product combines two antacids (Calcium Carbonate and Sodium Bicarbonate) with an Alginate. Once swallowed, it reacts rapidly with gastric acid and forms a raft of Alginic Acid gel with a near neutral pH. Studies have shown that the raft interacts with and caps the acid pocket in the stomach, which reduces esophageal acid exposure. The raft floats on the stomach contents and impedes gastro-esophageal reflux for up to 4 hours, protecting the esophagus from Acid, Pepsin and Bile. In severe cases the raft itself may be refluxed into the esophagus in preference to the stomach contents, and it then exerts a demulcent effect.
In vitro evidence has also shown that the raft has a secondary action. It can entrap bile and pepsin within its structure, which protects the esophagus further from these gastric components.
Calcium Carbonate neutralizes gastric acid and gives fast relief from indigestion and heartburn. Sodium Bicarbonate also has a neutralizing action, so adding it increases this effect.
Dosage Reference
Reference Information Only
Dosages shown are general references from official sources. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized dosing.
Adults:
For the oral suspension, adults and children over 12 years take 10 to 20 mL after meals and at bedtime, up to four times a day. Children aged 6 to 12 years take 5 to 10 mL at the same times, again up to four times a day. The suspension is not recommended for children under 6 years. Elderly patients need no change in dose.
The chewable tablet is taken by mouth and must be chewed thoroughly. Adults and children aged 12 years and over take two to four tablets after meals and at bedtime, up to four times a day. For children under 12 years, tablets should be given only on medical advice.
In hepatic impairment, no dose change is needed. In renal insufficiency, take caution if a highly restricted salt diet is necessary.
Side Effects
Along with its intended effect, the combination of Sodium Alginate, Sodium Bicarbonate and Calcium Carbonate can cause some side effects, such as constipation, flatulence, stomach cramp or belching. If you notice any of these, consult a physician. Taking too big a dose may give a sensation of swelling, and in that case too it is advisable to consult a physician.
Cautions & Contraindications
Warnings & Precautions
Every 20 ml dose of Sodium Alginate + Sodium Bicarbonate + Calcium Carbonate contains 254.5 mg (11.06 mmol) of sodium. Keep this in mind when a highly restricted salt diet has been advised, for example in some cases of congestive cardiac failure and renal impairment. Each 20 ml also contains 260 mg (6.5 mmol) of calcium, so take care when treating patients with hypercalcaemia, nephrocalcinosis, and recurrent calcium containing renal calculi. Children younger than 12 years of age should not generally be treated, except on medical advice. Sodium Alginate + Sodium Bicarbonate + Calcium Carbonate is considered high in sodium. This matters when a highly restricted salt diet is recommended, e.g., in some cases of congestive cardiac failure and renal impairment. Each tablet contains 75 mg of calcium. Again, care is needed in patients with hypercalcaemia, nephrocalcinosis and recurrent calcium containing renal calculi. The tablet contains aspartame, so it should not be given to patients with phenylketonuria. If symptoms persist, or treatment is needed for more than 7 days continuously, seek medical advice. The medicine can mask the symptoms of other, more serious underlying medical conditions. It should not be used in patients with impaired renal function/insufficiency and with hypophosphatemia. It may cause allergic reactions.
Contraindications
Don't give this medicine to anyone who is known or suspected to be allergic to sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate or calcium carbonate, or to any of the other ingredients in the product (the excipients).
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Studies in more than 500 pregnant women, along with a large amount of post-marketing data, show no malformations and no toxicity to the foetus or newborn from the active ingredients of this medicine. It can be used during pregnancy if it is clinically needed.
Breastfeeding: No effects of the active substances have been seen in breastfed newborns or infants of treated mothers. The medicine can be used during breastfeeding.
Fertility: Pre-clinical studies show that alginate has no negative effect on the fertility or reproduction of parents or their offspring. Clinical data do not suggest that this medicine affects human fertility.
⚠️ Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Overdose
After an overdose, treat the symptoms. The patient may notice abdominal distension.
⚠️ In an emergency call 999 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
Storage
Keep it in a cool, dry place below 30°C and away from light. Don't refrigerate or freeze it. Keep it out of the reach of children.
Drug Interactions
Common questions about Rafcon 500 mg+267 mg+160 mg
What is Rafcon 500 mg+267 mg+160 mg Oral Suspension?
Rafcon 500 mg+267 mg+160 mg Oral Suspension is a medicine that contains Sodium Alginate + Sodium Bicarbonate + Calcium Carbonate. It is made by Novatek Pharmaceuticals Ltd. It belongs to the Antacids group of medicines.
What is Rafcon used for?
Rafcon is used for: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, Dyspepsia.
What are the side effects of Rafcon?
Along with its intended effect, the combination of Sodium Alginate, Sodium Bicarbonate and Calcium Carbonate can cause some side effects, such as constipation, flatulence, stomach cramp or belching. If you notice any of these, consult a physician.
Can I take Rafcon during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Pregnancy: Studies in more than 500 pregnant women, along with a large amount of post-marketing data, show no malformations and no toxicity to the foetus or newborn from the active ingredients of this medicine. It can be used during pregnancy if it is clinically needed. Talk to your doctor before taking any medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
What happens if I take too much Rafcon?
After an overdose, treat the symptoms. The patient may notice abdominal distension. In an emergency call 999 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department.
How should I store Rafcon?
Keep it in a cool, dry place below 30°C and away from light. Don't refrigerate or freeze it.
Can I take other medicines with Rafcon?
Some medicines can interact with Sodium Alginate + Sodium Bicarbonate + Calcium Carbonate, for example: Atenolol, Iron, Ketoconazole, Chloroquine, Penicillamine, Metoprolol Tartrate. Tell your doctor or pharmacist about every medicine you take.
Do I need a prescription for Rafcon?
Rafcon is a prescription (Rx) medicine. Take it as your doctor advises.