How to Take Alka Seltzer

Medically reviewed by Luba Lee, FNP-BC, MS

Last Updated: November 17, 2022

If you’re suffering from cold symptoms, fever and body aches, or heartburn, you’re probably in need of some fast relief. Alka-Seltzer can be really helpful in combatting the symptoms that are keeping you from feeling your best. Before taking any over the counter medication, talk to your doctor to make sure it is safe for you to take. Then, go to any drugstore or box store and purchase the type of Alka-Seltzer that is designed to treat your symptoms. Read the directions, take as directed, and hopefully, you’ll be feeling better fast.

Things You Should Know

To get heartburn relief, dissolve 2 tablets in a glass of water and drink the whole glass, or alternatively use ReliefChews.
For cold and flu relief, choose the Alka-Seltzer product that fits your needs best and drink 2 tablets dissolved in a glass of water every 4 hours.
Talk to your doctor before using Alka-Seltzer to ensure it’s safe, and contact them if you get any severe side effects.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Using Alka-Seltzer for Heartburn Relief

1
Talk to your doctor before using Alka-Seltzer to make sure it is safe. While Alka-Seltzer is typically safe to use, check in with your doctor before you decide to take it. Answer their questions about your medical history and let them know any concerns you have. If you want to give Alka-Seltzer to a child or teen, you should also check with your doctor first. You may not be able to take Alka-Seltzer for heartburn if:^{[1]
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- You are allergic to Alka-Seltzer or any of the ingredients (aspirin, citric acid, and sodium bicarbonate)
- You have asthma, bleeding problems, or nose irritations or polyps
- You are taking any other drug that includes aspirin
- You are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding
2
Follow the directions on the packaging. Always carefully read the instructions to prevent taking Alka-Seltzer too often. Adults and children over 12 can take 2 tablets every 6 hours. Just make sure not to exceed 7 tablets in 24 hours. If you're over 60, don't exceed 3 tablets in 24 hours.^{[2]
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- Your doctor might give you different dosage instructions. If that's the case, listen to your doctor.
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3
Place 2 tablets in 4 fluid ounces (120 ml) of water. Pop the tablets out of the foil packet and drop them into a glass of water. The tablets will begin to fizz and dissolve immediately.^{[3]
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- Use room temperature water. Cold water will slow down the fizzing, and warm water will cause excessive fizzing.^{[4]
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4
Drink the water after the tablets have dissolved. Swallow the water as you normally would. You don’t have to drink it fast for it to be effective. Make sure to drink all of it so that you get the full dose of medicine.^{[5]
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5
Choose ReliefChews for a portable option. If you frequently experience heartburn while you’re out and about, try carrying a packet of Alka-Seltzer ReliefChews with you. Simply pop them in your mouth, chew, and swallow when you feel symptoms coming on. The chews deliver fast relief, but they generally don’t work quite as quickly as the effervescent tablets.^{[6]
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- You can choose from a variety of flavors like Tropical Twist and Tropical Punch.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Taking Alka-Seltzer for Cold and Flu Relief

1
Talk to your doctor about your medical history before using this product. While Alka-Seltzer Cold and Flu can’t cure you, it can offer temporary relief from your symptoms. Before you try it, talk to your doctor. They may advise you not to take it if:^{[7]
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- You are taking other drugs that include aspirin or take MAOIs (typically drugs for depression or other mental health issues)
- You are under 12 years old
- You have liver disease, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid problems, or glaucoma
- You have breathing problems, such as asthma or a persistent cough
2
Choose the product that best suits your needs. Alka-Seltzer Cold and Flu comes in many varieties. If your symptoms are keeping you from being productive during the day, choose a daytime, non-drowsy formula. If a cough or stuffy nose is keeping you up at night, take one of the nighttime formulas that can help you rest more easily. You can also purchase a package that contains both options.
- The packages are very clearly marked, so just carefully read the label to make sure you’re purchasing what you want.
- You can buy Alka-Seltzer at the pharmacy, a box store, or online.
3
Take 2 tablets dissolved in 4 fluid ounces (120 mL) of water every 4 hours. Pop 2 tablets into a glass of room temperature water and wait for them to fully dissolve. Once they are done fizzing, drink the glass of water as you normally would. Make sure to drink it all so that you get the full dose of medicine.^{[8]
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Contact your doctor about any severe side-effects. Alka-Seltzer is typically safe, but people do sometimes suffer from side-effects. Call your doctor immediately if:^{[9]
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- Your pain, cough, or congestion gets worse or lasts for more than 7 days
- Your fever gets worse or lasts for more than 3 days
- Redness, swelling, or a rash occurs
- You are dizzy, nervous, or having trouble sleeping

Warnings

Always follow the dosage instructions and ask your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.

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Children under 12 should not take Alka-Seltzer.^{[10]
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If you’re over 60, consult your doctor before using Alka-Seltzer, especially if you have a history of stomach or bowel ulcers. Be vigilant for side effects, since they may be stronger in older people.^{[11]
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