How Long After Taking Tums Can You Take Medication?

Answer

TUMS (calcium carbonate) is a commonly used over-the-counter antacid that is used to neutralize stomach acid and relieve symptoms of heartburn and indigestion.

Antacids have a rapid response time and will begin working quickly, but they also quickly leave the stomach. Typically, TUMS will relieve symptoms for 30 to 60 minutes if taken on an empty stomach and 2 to 3 hours if taken with food. The shorter action of TUMS requires more frequent dosing for persistent cases. 

TUMS Can Interact With Many Different Medications

When discussing interactions with TUMS, it is typically an interaction that involves either increasing or decreasing the absorption of the other medications in the stomach.

For example, the calcium contained in TUMS can bind to (i.e. chelate) several different antibiotics, such as doxycycline and tetracycline. This decreases their absorption and makes them less effective. One study found that co-administration of calcium and doxycycline decreased doxycycline absorption by over 50%.

If you are taking a medication that interacts with TUMS (or any calcium-containing product), to ensure proper absorption, it is important to separate TUMS from them by at least 2 to 3 hours. In other words, take your medications at least 2 to 3 hours before, or 2-3 hours after taking TUMS.

Some medications have an even greater window of time you should wait.

With the above being said, TUMS does not interact with all medication. For example, there are no known drug interactions between TUMS and the drugs you mentioned in your question (i.e. lisinopril, clonidine, clindamycin, and Klonopin (clonazepam)). Be sure to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about your specific medications.

Additional Information About TUMS

It is important to remember that antacids do not treat gastrointestinal issues, but instead, they help to alleviate symptoms. If your heartburn or indigestion is very frequent, occurring daily and in the evenings, you should contact a doctor to determine if the issue is more serious and may require prescription treatment.

Calcium levels could increase when taking TUMS for long periods of time. Constipation is a common side effect when taking TUMS, but can be corrected with a high fiber diet. Some symptoms of hypercalcemia when taking TUMS include altered mental status, loss of appetite, vomiting, restlessness, and fatigue.

Final Words

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