[Evaluation of action, efficacy, and onset dynamics of a single dose of alginates in patients with heartburn and GERD].

We conducted a crossover study, in which the efficacy and the onset of action of a single dose of Gaviscon (suspension) and Gaviscon forte (suspension) in 52 patients with heartburn of moderate intensity and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) have been investigated. The average age of the patients was 44.0 +/- 17.3-years-old. The patients have undergone clinical evaluation of intensity of GERD symptoms and psychological assessment (questionnaires SF-36, SMOL, LOBI). Alginates' effects and qualities were evaluated using stopwatch technique, clinical examination, and organoleptic assessment. Primary sensation of a cooling (soothing) effect after use of a single dose of Gaviscon has been reported in 65.7 seconds (on average), and Gaviscon forte--in 66.1 seconds. Fourty three (82.7%) patients with heartburn have described the effects of both medications as "instant" cooling effects. Heartburn was relieved in 3.3 minutes in all patients after a single dose of Gaviscon, and in 3.6 minutes in 51 (98.1%) patients who have received a single dose of Gaviscon forte. Organoleptic qualities averaged at 3.6 points (on a scale of 1-5) for Gaviscon, and at 3.5 points for Gaviscon forte. Assessment of mental status of the patients suggested that a "delayed" effect of the medications in relieving heartburn in some patients may have occurred due to possible physical disadaptation.