Frequently Asked Questions
What's the Difference?
Alka-Seltzer®
Fast relief of acid indigestion and pain.
Alka-Seltzer Plus®
Breaks up your worst cold symptoms.
The most effervescent place in the universe!
Our FAQ will tell you just about everything you ever needed or wanted to know about Alka-Seltzer.
If your questions are not answered here or elsewhere on this web site,
please contact us.
Advantages
Dosage/Direction
- If I am diabetic, can I use Alka-Seltzer?
- Can I use the Alka-Seltzer formulas beyond the expiration date?
- Can I dissolve Alka-Seltzer tablets in something other than water?
- Sometimes there is a residue in the glass after I take Alka-Seltzer. Does it need to be consumed?
- What temperature of water should I use to dissolve Alka-Seltzer tablets?
- What should I do if the tablets don't fizz?
- How long can I use Alka-Seltzer?
- Can I use Alka-Seltzer products if I'm pregnant or nursing?
- Does caffeine help fight headaches?
- Do hangovers only result from nights of excessive drinking?
Ingredients
Where to Buy
- Where can I buy Alka-Seltzer products?
- How can I be sure that I am getting the best price for my Alka-Seltzer?
Alka-Seltzer History
What are the advantages of taking a heartburn medicine in solution, like Alka-Seltzer, over taking a medication in tablet form?
There are multiple advantages to using the effervescent Alka-Seltzer heartburn medication. Simply put, the medicine dissolves fast and is ready to go to work the instant you take it. Because the medicines in Alka-Seltzer Original are in solution prior to ingestion, they do not require time to dissolve in the stomach like similar active ingredients taken in tablet form
If I am diabetic, can I use Alka-Seltzer?
Ask a Doctor or Pharmacist before use if you are taking a prescription medicine for diabetes.
Can I Use the Alka-Seltzer formulas beyond the expiration date?
We recommend that you discard any expired Alka-Seltzer product. It will not be harmful if ingested, but it may not be as effective in relieving your symptoms.
Can I dissolve Alka-Seltzer tablets in something other than water?
We do not recommend anything but water. While the tablets will dissolve in other liquids, the amount of fizz or time to full dissolution will change. Also, efficacy and safety have not been established when these products are dissolved in anything but water.
Sometimes there is a residue in the glass after I take Alka-Seltzer. Does it need to be consumed?
You do not have to drink the residue on the sides and the bottom of the glass. All the medicines are in the water.
What temperature of water should I use to dissolve Alka-Seltzer tablets?
The best temperature is room temperature. Cold water will slow down dissolution and warm water can make it foam excessively.
What should I do if the tablets don't fizz?
This is a sign that the tablets may have started to break down. It is very likely that the foil packet has a slight imperfection or pin hole which has allowed moisture to come in contact with the tablets. This may also cause the tablets to discolor and crumble. Please be aware that the product will not be as effective. Call 1-800-800-4793.
How long can I use Alka-Seltzer?
Please read and follow label directions. In general, these products are not for use for more than 10 consecutive days.
Can I use Alka-Seltzer products if I'm pregnant or nursing?
As with any drug, if you are pregnant or nursing a baby, seek the advice of a health professional before using any Alka-Seltzer product.
Does caffeine help fight headaches?
In addition to giving a burst of energy, caffeine has been found to help relieve headaches. In fact, the National Headache Foundation has found that when caffeine is added to the common nonprescription pain relievers, like aspirin, the pain relieving effect is increased by 40%.
Do hangovers only result from nights of excessive drinking?
The symptoms commonly referred to as a "hangover" aren't necessarily a result of excessive drinking. For many people it can take no more than a late night with one or two drinks to cause minor aches and pains with fatigue or drowsiness the next morning.
Does Alka-Seltzer Contain PPA (phenylpropanolamine)?
No. None of the Alka-Seltzer formulas contain PPA (phenylpropanolamine).
Where can I buy Alka-Seltzer products?
The various Alka-Seltzer formulas are available in most drug stores, food stores, mass merchandisers and club stores. If you do not find them on your local store shelf, ask the store manager to order them for you. We have found that most stores make their purchasing decisions based on consumer interest.
How can I be sure that I am getting the best price for my Alka-Seltzer?
Pricing varies from store to store. As with any purchase, whether it be clothing, food, or Alka-Seltzer products, it is recommended that you watch for sales, money-saving coupons, and do some comparison shopping for the best retail price in your area.
Did Alka-Seltzer ever come in a glass container?
Alka-Seltzer used to be in glass tubes, which were discontinued to reduce costs and eliminate breakage problems in 1984.
Who composed Plop Plop Fizz Fizz?
Tom Dawes - Twin Star Music.
What is the History of Speedy Alka-Seltzer?
Radio Actor, Dick Beals was the voice of Speedy Alka-Seltzer on our Alka-Seltzer commercials. Speedy Alka-Seltzer was originally known as Sparky, but the name was changed by a sales manager, Perry L. Shupert, to reflect that year's promotional theme, "Speedy Relief". The Speedy Alka-Seltzer character was created at the Wade Ad Agency in 1951. The original working model was 6 inches tall and sculpted by Duke Russell. It appeared in more than 200 commercials over a 10 year period from 1954-1964. In 1955 a vinyl Speedy Alka-Seltzer doll was created.