INSTARAFT PEPPERMINT FLAVOUR Chewable Tablet 10's

Introduction About INSTARAFT PEPPERMINT FLAVOUR CHEWABLE TABLET

Instaraft Chewable Tablet is a combination medicine containing sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium carbonate. It is commonly used to provide relief from heartburn and indigestion caused by excess stomach acid or acid reflux. After chewing and swallowing, the medicine reacts with stomach acid to form a protective gel-like layer (raft) that floats on the stomach contents. This barrier helps reduce the backflow of stomach acid into the food pipe, while the antacid ingredients help neutralize excess acid, providing relief from symptoms of heartburn and indigestion.

Instaraft Chewable Tablet works through a dual mechanism of action. Sodium alginate forms a protective alginic acid gel (raft) over the stomach contents, helping prevent acid reflux into the esophagus for up to 4 hours. Calcium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate act as antacids by neutralizing excess stomach acid, providing rapid relief from heartburn and indigestion. Together, these ingredients help reduce acid-related discomfort while protecting the lining of the food pipe from further irritation.

The tablets should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing and taken exactly as advised by your doctor. For adults and children above 12 years of age, the usual recommended dose is 2 to 4 chewable tablets after meals and at bedtime, up to four times daily. Children below 12 years of age should use this medicine only on the advice of a doctor. Since calcium carbonate may interfere with the absorption of certain medicines, maintain a minimum gap of 2 hours between Instaraft Chewable Tablet and other medications such as antibiotics, iron supplements, thyroid medicines, and certain heart medications.

Instaraft Chewable Tablet should be used with caution in people with high blood pressure, heart failure, kidney disease, edema, hypercalcemia, or those following a low-sodium diet, as it contains significant amounts of sodium and calcium. It should not be used in patients with severe renal impairment, hypophosphatemia, known hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients, or certain hereditary sugar intolerance disorders. Taking Instaraft Chewable Tablet may cause mild laxative effects and may mask the symptoms of other or more underlying conditions. Always consult your doctor for advice.

Common side effects are uncommon but may include constipation, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea, allergic skin reactions, itching, or acid rebound. Rarely, severe allergic reactions, bronchospasm, hypercalcemia, alkalosis, or milk-alkali syndrome may occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or signs of a severe allergic reaction. Instaraft Chewable Tablet may be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding if clinically indicated and advised by a doctor, but the treatment duration should be limited. Always use this medicine under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.

Uses Of INSTARAFT PEPPERMINT FLAVOUR CHEWABLE TABLET

• Provides relief from heartburn caused by excess stomach acid.
• Helps relieve indigestion (dyspepsia) and acid-related digestive discomfort.
• Reduces acid reflux by helping prevent the backflow of stomach acid into the food pipe (oesophagus).
• Helps manage symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), including heartburn and acid regurgitation.
• Relieves discomfort caused by excess stomach acid, particularly after meals or at bedtime.  

Benefits of INSTARAFT PEPPERMINT FLAVOUR CHEWABLE TABLET

Instaraft Chewable Tablet for Heartburn

Instaraft Chewable Tablet is commonly used to manage heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest caused by stomach acid flowing back into the food pipe. It forms a protective raft over the stomach contents while neutralizing excess stomach acid, helping provide fast and effective relief.

Instaraft Chewable Tablet for Indigestion

The medicine is used to manage indigestion (dyspepsia) associated with excess stomach acid. Its antacid ingredients help neutralize stomach acid, while the alginate forms a protective barrier that helps relieve acid-related digestive discomfort.

Instaraft Chewable Tablet for Acid Reflux

Instaraft Chewable Tablet is commonly recommended to manage acid reflux, where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. It forms a protective alginic acid gel (raft) that floats on the stomach contents, helping reduce acid reflux and soothe irritation caused by acid exposure.

Instaraft Chewable Tablet for GERD-Related Symptoms

The tablet may be used to manage symptoms associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), such as heartburn and acid regurgitation. Its dual action of forming a protective barrier and neutralizing stomach acid helps provide relief from reflux-related discomfort when taken as directed by a healthcare professional.

How INSTARAFT PEPPERMINT FLAVOUR CHEWABLE TABLET Works

Mechanism of Action of Instaraft Chewable Tablet

Instaraft Chewable Tablet contains sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium carbonate, which work together to provide relief from heartburn, acid reflux, and indigestion. After chewing and swallowing, sodium alginate reacts with stomach acid to form a protective alginic acid gel (raft) that floats on top of the stomach contents, helping prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the food pipe. Calcium carbonate and sodium bicarbonate act as antacids by neutralizing excess stomach acid, providing rapid relief from acid-related discomfort. This dual action helps reduce heartburn symptoms while protecting the esophagus from further acid irritation.

How to use INSTARAFT PEPPERMINT FLAVOUR CHEWABLE TABLET

How to Take Instaraft Chewable Tablet

• Take Instaraft Chewable Tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor or as directed on the label.
• Chew the tablets thoroughly before swallowing. Do not swallow them whole.
• Adults and children above 12 years: Take 2 to 4 tablets after meals and at bedtime, up to 4 times a day, or as advised by your doctor.
• Children below 12 years: Use only if recommended by a doctor.
• Maintain at least a 2-hour gap between Instaraft Chewable Tablet and other medicines, especially antibiotics, iron supplements, thyroid medicines, and certain heart medications, as it may affect their absorption.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose or use the medicine for longer than advised without consulting your doctor.

What if I forgot to take INSTARAFT PEPPERMINT FLAVOUR CHEWABLE TABLET

• If you forget to take Instaraft Chewable Tablet, take it when you remember, provided you still need relief from your symptoms.
• If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one.
• Since this medicine is often taken after meals and at bedtime, simply take the next dose as directed if you miss one.
• If you frequently forget your doses or your symptoms persist despite taking the medicine, consult your doctor.   

Overdose

If you or someone else takes more than the prescribed dose of Instaraft Chewable Tablet, discontinue the medicine and seek immediate medical attention or visit the nearest hospital. An overdose may cause abdominal distension (bloating) and may increase the risk of side effects such as constipation, hypercalcemia, or alkalosis, particularly with excessive or prolonged use. Always take Instaraft Chewable Tablet exactly as advised by your doctor.

Side Effects Of INSTARAFT PEPPERMINT FLAVOUR CHEWABLE TABLET

Common Side Instaraft Chewable Tablet

• Constipation
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain or stomach discomfort
• Diarrhoea
• Itchy skin rash (pruritic rash)
• Hives (urticaria)
• Acid rebound (increased stomach acid after the effect wears off)

When to Seek Medical Attention?

Stop Taking Instaraft Chewable Tablet and contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following

• Difficulty breathing or bronchospasm
• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
• Severe allergic reactions (anaphylactic or anaphylactoid reactions)
• Signs of high calcium levels (hypercalcemia), such as excessive thirst, frequent
• urination, confusion, or muscle weakness
• Symptoms of milk-alkali syndrome or alkalosis

How To Manage Side Effects

Diarrhea

• Stay well hydrated: Sip plenty of water, ORS, or clear fluids to replace lost fluids and salts.
• ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution): Helps restore electrolytes and prevents dehydration. Take small sips frequently.
• Banana, rice, apple, toast (BRAT diet): These foods are easy to digest and may help firm stools.
• Curd or yogurt (plain): Contains natural probiotics that support gut balance. Avoid flavoured varieties.
• Ginger water or ginger tea: May help soothe the digestive system and reduce discomfort.
• Avoid oily, spicy, and sugary foods: These can worsen diarrhoea and irritate the gut.
• Adequate rest: Rest supports recovery and reduces strain on the body.

Nausea And Vomiting

• Take small sips of fluids: Sip water, oral rehydration solution (ORS), or clear fluids frequently to prevent dehydration.
• Eat bland foods: Once vomiting settles, start with foods such as plain rice, toast, bananas, applesauce, or plain crackers.
• Avoid oily and spicy foods: Fatty, fried, and heavily spiced foods may worsen nausea and vomiting.
• Try ginger: Ginger tea, ginger candies, or small amounts of fresh ginger may help reduce nausea in some people.
• Eat small, frequent meals: Avoid large meals and eat slowly to reduce stomach irritation.
• Rest after eating: Sit upright for at least 30–60 minutes after meals. Avoid lying down immediately.
• Avoid strong smells: Perfumes, smoke, and cooking odors may trigger nausea in some people.
• Stay hydrated: If you're unable to eat, continue sipping fluids regularly to replace lost water and electrolytes.

Warning & Precautions

Pregnancy

Consult your doctor

Instaraft Chewable Tablet can be used during pregnancy if clinically indicated. However, the duration of treatment should be limited. Always consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy.

Breastfeeding

Consult your doctor

Instaraft Chewable Tablet can be used during breastfeeding if clinically indicated. Treatment should be limited to the shortest duration necessary. Consult your doctor before using this medicine while breastfeeding.

Driving and Using Machines

Use with Caution

Instaraft Chewable Tablet has no or negligible influence on the ability to drive or operate machines. However, if you experience any unusual symptoms after taking the medicine, avoid such activities until you feel well.

Alcohol

Contraindicated

There is no known direct interaction between Instaraft Chewable Tablet and alcohol. However, alcohol may worsen symptoms of heartburn and acid reflux. It is advisable to limit or avoid alcohol consumption if you experience these symptoms. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns.

Kidney

Consult your doctor

Do not use Instaraft Chewable Tablet if you have severe kidney impairment unless advised by your doctor. Use with caution if you have low phosphate levels, high calcium levels (hypercalcemia) or a history of calcium-related disorders, kidney disease or need to follow a strict salt-restricted diet, as the medicine contains sodium and calcium.

Liver

Consult your doctor

No dose adjustment is generally required in patients with liver impairment. However, inform your doctor about any existing liver condition before using this medicine. 

Allergy

Contraindicated

Do not take Instaraft Chewable Tablet if you are allergic to sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, or any of the other ingredients in the formulation. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, or difficulty breathing.

Heart Disease

Use with Caution

Use Instaraft Chewable Tablet with caution if you have heart failure, hypertension, edema, or other heart-related conditions, particularly if you have been advised to follow a low-sodium diet. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine.

Use In Pediatrics

Consult your doctor

Children below 12 years of age should use Instaraft Chewable Tablet only on the advice of a doctor.

Use In Geriatrics

Consult your doctor

No dose reduction is required in elderly patients. However, they should use the medicine as directed by their healthcare professional.

Other Warnings for INSTARAFT PEPPERMINT FLAVOUR CHEWABLE TABLET

Before Taking Instaraft Chewable Tablet, Inform Your Doctor If You

• Have high blood pressure or swelling (edema).
• Have fructose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption, or sucrase-isomaltase insufficiency.  
• Have phenylketonuria (PKU).  
• Are taking any other medicines, especially antibiotics, iron supplements, thyroid medicines, heart medicines (such as digoxin), antifungal medicines, or other antacids, as a 2-hour gap may be required.
• Continue to have persistent or worsening heartburn, indigestion, or acid reflux symptoms, as these may require further medical evaluation.  
• Plan to use this medicine for a prolonged period, as long-term use should only be under medical supervision.     

Safety Advice

• Take Instaraft Chewable Tablet exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose or use it for longer than advised.
• Chew the tablet thoroughly before swallowing for the medicine to work effectively.
• Maintain a gap of at least 2 hours between Instaraft Chewable Tablet and other medicines, as it may reduce the absorption of certain medications such as antibiotics, iron supplements, thyroid medicines, and digoxin.
• Use with caution if you are on a low-sodium diet or have high blood pressure, heart failure, kidney disease, edema, or high calcium levels, as the medicine contains sodium and calcium.
• Do not use this medicine if you have severe kidney impairment, hypophosphatemia, or are allergic to any of its ingredients.
• Avoid prolonged use without consulting your doctor, as it may mask symptoms of a more serious underlying condition.
• Tell your doctor if your heartburn or indigestion persists or worsens despite treatment or if you need to take the medicine frequently.

Diet and Lifestyle Advice

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large meals to reduce pressure on the stomach and help minimize acid reflux.
• Avoid foods and beverages that may trigger heartburn, such as spicy foods, fried or fatty foods, chocolate, peppermint, citrus fruits, tomatoes, caffeinated drinks, and carbonated beverages.
• Limit or avoid alcohol, as it can worsen heartburn and acid reflux symptoms.
• Do not lie down immediately after eating. Wait at least 2–3 hours before lying down or going to bed.
• Sleep with your head elevated by about 15–20 cm (6–8 inches) if you experience nighttime heartburn or acid reflux.
• Maintain a healthy body weight, as excess weight can increase pressure on the stomach and contribute to acid reflux.
• Avoid smoking, as it may weaken the lower oesophageal sphincter and increase the risk of acid reflux.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing around the waist to reduce pressure on the stomach.
• Stay well hydrated and choose a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while avoiding foods that worsen your symptoms.
• Take Instaraft Chewable Tablet after meals and at bedtime, or exactly as directed by your doctor, for optimal relief.

1.Instaraft Chewable Tablet vs Other Heartburn Relief Medicines

Drug - Drug interaction

1. H2-Receptor Antagonists (e.g., Famotidine, Ranitidine)

• Interaction: Calcium carbonate in Instaraft Chewable Tablet may reduce the absorption of H2-receptor antagonists, potentially decreasing their effectiveness.
• Management: Maintain a minimum gap of 2 hours between Instaraft Chewable Tablet and H2-receptor antagonists. Follow your doctor's advice regarding dosing.

2. Tetracycline Antibiotics (e.g., Doxycycline, Tetracycline)

• Interaction: Calcium in the tablet may bind to tetracycline antibiotics, reducing their absorption and effectiveness.
• Management: Take tetracycline antibiotics at least 2 hours before or after Instaraft Chewable Tablet.

3. Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics (e.g., Ciprofloxacin, Levofloxacin)

• Interaction: Calcium carbonate may reduce the absorption of fluoroquinolone antibiotics, making them less effective.
• Management: Maintain a 2-hour interval between Instaraft Chewable Tablet and these antibiotics.

4. Iron Supplements

• Interaction: Instaraft Chewable Tablet may reduce the absorption of iron supplements.
• Management: Take iron supplements at least 2 hours apart from Instaraft Chewable Tablet.

5. Thyroid Medicines (e.g., Levothyroxine)

• Interaction: Calcium carbonate may reduce the absorption of thyroid hormone replacement medicines.
• Management: Maintain a minimum 2-hour gap between Instaraft Chewable Tablet and thyroid medicines.

6. Digoxin

• Interaction: Instaraft Chewable Tablet may affect the absorption of digoxin and alter its therapeutic effect.
• Management: Use together only under medical supervision and maintain a 2-hour interval between doses.

7. Other Medicines (e.g., Ketoconazole, Penicillamine, Beta-blockers, Glucocorticoids, Chloroquine, Estramustine, Bisphosphonates, Neuroleptics)

• Interaction: Calcium carbonate may interfere with the absorption of these medicines, reducing their effectiveness.
• Management: Maintain a minimum gap of 2 hours between Instaraft Chewable Tablet and these medications. Inform your doctor about all medicines you are taking.

Drug - Food interaction

1. Alcoholic Beverages

• Interaction: Alcohol may worsen heartburn and acid reflux, reducing the overall benefit of the medicine.
• Management: Limit or avoid alcohol while taking Instaraft Chewable Tablet.

Synopsis

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References

1. Monika A. Kwiatek, Sabine Roman, Anita Fareeduddin, John E. Pandolfino, Peter J. Kahrilas. An alginate-antacid formulation (Gaviscon Double Action Liquid®) can eliminate the postprandial "acid pocket" in symptomatic GERD patients. PubMed. NIH National Library of Medicine. National Centre for Biotechnology Information. PMC PubMed Central. [Revised in April 2013]. [Assessed 3rd August 2026]

2. B.N. Harisha. G. Shakuntala. A surveillance study to observe the safety and effectiveness of a fixed-dose combination of sodium alginate + sodium bicarbonate + calcium carbonate (alginate raft-forming oral suspension) therapy in patients diagnosed with symptoms of gastro-oesophageal reflux disease. Journal of population therapeutics and clinical pharmacology. [Revised in 30th March 2025]. [Assessed 3rd August 2026]

3. Ankur Vasoya. Sunil Kumar Shah. C K Tyagi. Prabhakar Budholiya. Harish Pandey. Formulation, development and evaluation of chewable bi-layered tablets for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease. Journal of drug delivery and therapeutics. [Revised in July – August 2020]. [Assessed 3rd August 2026]