According to Netdoctor.co.uk, Alka-Seltzer is a medication used to relieve mild to moderate pain caused by migraines, menstrual cramps, toothache and pain from minor injury. Alka-Seltzer contains aspirin, which works as analgesic and relieves pain and inflammation by blocking the production of prostaglandins. Alka-Seltzer also contains an antacid, which neutralizes stomach acid and relives symptoms of upset stomach.
Migraine Headaches
According to MayoClinic.com, migraines are chronic headaches that can cause significant pain for hours. Migraines usually are accompanied by sensory warning symptoms such as flashes of light, blind spots and tingling in the arms. Migraines also are accompanied by nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraines can be triggered by hormones, food, stress, insomnia and certain medications
Migraine Headache and Alka-Seltzer
According to Netdoctor.co.uk, mild to moderate migraine pain can be treated using over-the-counter Alka-Seltzer, but severe migraines require prescription medications . If symptoms of migraine do not resolve, patients should consult a doctor.
Contraindications
According to Drugs.com, Alka-Seltzer should not be used by patients allergic to aspirin or the other contents. Aspirin allergy might cause constriction of airways in asthmatic patients, so Alka-Seltzer should be avoided. Alka-Seltzer should not be used in children and adolescents recovering from viral infections, as the combination of aspirin and viral infections can lead to a fatal condition known as Reye's syndrome
Side Effects of Alka-Seltzer
According to Drugs.com, common side effects of Alka-Seltzer include heartburn, nausea and upset stomach. Alka-Seltzer contains aspirin, which prevents clotting of blood and puts patients with bleeding disorders such as hemophilia at a high risk of unusual bleeding. Signs and symptoms of internal bleeding include uncontrollable bleeding from small cuts, vomit that looks like coffee grounds, bloody stool, nose bleeding, red or purple bruises under the skin, weakness, fainting and dizziness
Alka-Seltzer Dosage and Admnistration
Alka-Seltzer is available as effervescent tablets, which should not be removed from the package until they are ready to be used. Tablets should not be held with wet hands. Patients should place tablets in a glass with 4 oz. of water and drink the mixture only once the tablets dissolve. Patients should avoid chewing or swallowing the tablets.
