acetylsalicylic acid + sodium bicarbonate + citric acid

This drug is a fixed-dose combination of three active ingredients: acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), sodium bicarbonate, and citric acid. Aspirin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that acts as an analgesic and antipyretic by irreversibly inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2), thereby reducing the synthesis of prostaglandins involved in pain, inflammation, and fever. It also inhibits platelet aggregation by blocking thromboxane A2 production. Sodium bicarbonate is an antacid that neutralizes excess gastric acidity through a chemical reaction with stomach hydrochloric acid. Citric acid reacts with sodium bicarbonate to produce effervescence when dissolved in water, aiding palatability and further buffering stomach acidity. The combination is primarily used for the relief of minor aches and pains accompanied by heartburn or indigestion but may also be used to reduce the risk of blood clots under medical supervision[1][3][6][7]. Developed originally by Dr. Miles Medicine Company in 1931, it has been owned by Bayer since 1978[6].

Brand names

Alka-SeltzerAlka-Seltzer OriginalAlka-Seltzer Extra StrengthPain Relief EffervescentAlcortin A

Other names

aspirin, sodium bicarbonate, and citric acidaspirin-citric acid-sodium bicarbonate