Last reviewed: July 16, 2026. This article is for general information and does not replace advice from a licensed clinician.
Editorial review and sources
Editorial review: osvilt.com Editorial Team
Last reviewed: July 16, 2026
This medical article is based on current public medical sources and follows the osvilt.com Medical Review Policy. It is for general information only and does not replace professional care; see our Medical Disclaimer.
Gaviscon and Maalox can both be used for indigestion or heartburn symptoms, but they work differently. Gaviscon products often form an alginate raft to reduce reflux, while Maalox products neutralize stomach acid with aluminium and magnesium antacids, sometimes with simeticone.
Short answer: Gaviscon may fit reflux/regurgitation symptoms after meals, while Maalox may fit occasional acid indigestion or bloating depending on the product. Frequent symptoms, swallowing trouble, vomiting blood, weight loss or black stool should not be self-treated.
What changed in this update
The article now compares mechanism, symptom fit and warning signs. It avoids presenting antacids as a long-term plan for unresolved reflux, ulcers or alarm symptoms.
Side-by-side comparison
| Point | Gaviscon | Maalox |
|---|---|---|
| Main mechanism | Alginate forms a protective foam/raft on stomach contents; many products also include antacid ingredients. | Aluminium hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide neutralize acid; some products add simeticone for gas. |
| Best fit | Heartburn, acid reflux, regurgitation after meals or lying down. | Occasional indigestion, heartburn, sour stomach or gas depending on formula. |
| Timing | Often after meals and at bedtime, according to product label. | Often after meals/when symptoms occur, according to product label. |
| Cautions | Check sodium/potassium content, kidney/heart disease, pregnancy and medicine spacing. | Constipation/diarrhea, kidney disease, drug interactions and medicine spacing. |
Do not miss GERD or ulcer warning signs
Occasional heartburn is common, but repeated symptoms, need for frequent antacid use, trouble swallowing, food sticking, vomiting, anemia, black stool or weight loss need medical evaluation. NICE guidance covers investigation and management of dyspepsia and reflux in adults.
Medication spacing matters
Antacids and alginates can affect absorption of other medicines. Ask a pharmacist how far apart to take them from thyroid medicine, iron, certain antibiotics, osteoporosis medicines or other regular prescriptions.
When to get medical care
Seek urgent care for chest pain that could be heart-related, vomiting blood, black/tarry stool, fainting, severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, trouble swallowing, unintentional weight loss, anemia, or new symptoms after age 55. Ask a clinician before regular use if pregnant, kidney disease, heart failure, on a low-salt diet, or taking many medicines.
FAQ
Can I take Gaviscon and Maalox together?
Do not stack products without a pharmacist or clinician; ingredients may overlap and can interfere with other medicines.
Which works faster?
Both can relieve symptoms quickly, but Gaviscon is more reflux-focused and Maalox is more acid-neutralizing/gas-focused depending on formula.
When should I switch to a PPI?
Do not self-escalate indefinitely. Frequent or persistent symptoms should be reviewed so the cause and best treatment are clear.
