alginic acid

**Alginic acid** is a naturally derived, heterogeneous anionic polysaccharide isolated primarily from brown seaweed. It is composed of variably arranged mannuronic-acid and guluronic-acid residues and hydrates to form viscous gels. In oral reflux products, alginic-acid or alginate-containing formulations can form a buoyant, viscous barrier over gastric contents, reducing physical reflux into the esophagus and laryngopharynx; this is a local, non-systemic physical mechanism rather than receptor-mediated pharmacology. The exact acid polymer should not be conflated with its chemically distinct sodium, calcium, potassium, or mixed alginate salts, which are commonly used in commercial and investigational formulations. Alginic acid has also been investigated as a soluble dietary fiber for effects on satiety, fat digestion, and the intestinal microbiome.

Brand names

Gaviscon

Other names

acidum alginicumalginE400E-400E 400polymannuronic-guluronic acid