Normally, when we adults feel heartburn or stomach ache, we just take antacids, a.k.a tums, and feel relief within minutes. But what about the children? Can children take tums? Well, if you’re searching for this, then here’s your quick answer:
As per information from the US national library of Medicine, children over 12 years can take tums. Calcium Carbonate is the main ingredient of all antacids. The continuous use of it may lead to loss of appetite and belching.
Well, this explains much. But the true scientific fact is the calcium released from the tums leads to an increase in peristaltic movements. That helps to provide relief from heartburn.
So, what should we caregivers do?
We are glad that you are worried about your child’s health. That’s why our Editors have collaborated with professionals to debunk the facts and myths.So, sit back and keep on reading to find out what’s best for your toddler’s health.
What Are Tums? And What’s All The Hype About?
Tums is an over-the-counter chewable tablet that has Calcium Carbonate as the main ingredient. It is considered a magic treatment for the following conditions:
- Upset Stomach
- Heartburn
- Acid Indigestion
- Sour Stomach
They are widely famous for providing instant heartburn relief by neutralizing the acid in your muscular esophagus tube. Usually, they start working instantly and provide complete temporary relief within 30 to 45 minutes.
Are Tums Safe For Kids?
No, parents should avoid giving tums to their kids. Generally, a single dose or the recommended amount by a doctor is considered safe, but you should never give antacids like Rolaids or Tums to toddlers on your own.
It is a common misconception that a kid over 6 years old can have it. As per the report by Missouri Poison Center, an overdose can lead to severe upset stomach and vomiting.
It is worth mentioning that a one-time dose is not harmful, as it usually has very low bad health effects. But we believe that nothing is more important than the safety of your children, so skip it.
But All Kids Love Chewable Tums…. What Should Parents Do?
Well, being a mother of two, I can clearly get the picture. Toddlers love to enjoy chewable tums due to a blast of flavors and taste.
And most commonly, in the case of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GRED), doctors mainly recommend an over-the-counter antacid dosage.
So, you may be wondering why to go for all the fuss when at the end of the day, the doctor is gonna recommend the same thing. The truth is every child is different, and it is not a rule of thumb that if your kid is having heartburn or gas issues.
It could be any severe disease that may require a proper checkup. That’s why it is important to consult with your physician first rather than trying your own experiments.
If you are sure that they are suffering from an upset stomach or acid indigestion, you can only give them a one-tablet dose to ease the pain until you arrive at the hospital.
Tums Dosage For Children
Before you read any further, keep in mind that more than 2 tablets within the time span of 24 hours are dangerous for kids unless your doctor recommends it.
Here’s a dosage chart based on the age of the children:
| Weight (lbs) | Age | Dosage |
| Under 25 | Under 2 yrs | Ask a doctor |
| 32 – 40 | 2 – 4 yrs | 1 tablet |
| 34 – 45 | 4 – 6 yrs | 1 tablet |
| 50 – 56 | 6 – 8 yrs | 2 tablets |
| 55 – 60 | 8 – 9 yrs | 2 tablets |
| 62 – 78 | 9 – 11 yrs | 2 tablets |
| Less than 100 | 11 – 13 yrs | 3 tablets |
- In some conditions, children can take 3 tables within a day. But, it is not safe for kids under 6 to take more than two tablets.
- Generally, two tablets within a week are considered safe for the age group of 5 to 10 years old.
- As per the data from the Tums website, it is safe for kids over 12 to take them without a prescription.
How To Take Tums?
The tums tablets should always be chewed and dissolved in the mouth rather than swallowed directly. The best time to take them is one hour after your meal. But if you experience heartburn, you can take them right away.
Many adults also prefer to take them in the smoothie form, which is okay for teenagers but not suitable for toddlers.
Side Effects Of Antacids Overuse
As mentioned earlier, Calcium Carbonate is the main tums ingredient, and overuse of it may result in several health hazards. If you or your kid is overusing any form of antacids, you may experience
- Kidney stones or damage
- Heart disturbance due to high calcium
- Extreme constipation
- Sudden vomiting
- Severe diarrhea
That’s why it is strongly recommended to consult your doctor first before giving them any antacid form, i.e. liquid, tablets, or gummies.
My Kid Has An Overdose Of Tums. Should I Be Worried?
Well, yes, you should be worried, but there is no need to panic. The first thing you should do is call 911 or consult your family physician right away. Until the help arrives, it is best to keep them hydrated.
If your toddler is experiencing severe pain, then you should encourage them to breathe heavily and keep them busy. Keep in mind that the antacids dissolve slowly, and inducing the vomit is not a solution.
Antacid Dose For Children FAQs
Are tums harmful to toddlers?
No, a single table dose is not harmful to toddlers. But it is best to avoid any form of antacids for kids under 12 years.
Can a 9 year old take tums?
As per the tums official website, a 9 or 10 year old kid should not take tums unless the doctors recommend it.
Is tums good for acid reflux?
Yes, it is a quick treatment for acid reflux and upset stomach. But keep in mind that it only provides temporary relief.
How many tums to take for acid reflux?
It is best to never take more than two tablets within 24 hours. The general rule of thumb is to take the doctor’s prescribed dosage.
Can you swallow chewable tums?
No, you should never swallow chewable tums. The right way to intake them is by chewing and dissolving them in the mouth.
Wrapping It Up!
Tums might be a magical over-the-counter medicine for adults but it is not recommended for kids under 12. Even though toddlers over 2 years can have a dose, it is best to skip it at this young age.
If your little one has a medical condition, then the high Calcium Carbonate intake may lead to several serious side effects including kidney stones and stomach aches.
Generally, it is believed that tums are harmless or have a very minimal health effect. But, compromising on the health of your toddler is not worth it at all, under any circumstances.
We hope that we were able to clear all your doubts about antacid consumption. Well, in the meantime be happy and keep on loving your kid in all possible ways.
