Alginic acid

Absorption

The absorption into the systemic circulation from oral formulations of alginic acid is reported to be minimal, as the mode of action of alginic acid is physical .

Toxicity

Probable oral lethal dose reported in humans is above 15 g/kg . Ingestion of large quantities may result in abdominal distension, intestinal obstruction, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing. Aspiration or inhalation may lead to pneumonitis . In the event of overdosage symptomatic treatment should be given .

The Uses of Alginic acid

algin (alginic acid) is used in cosmetic formulations as a thickener, stabilizer, and gelling agent. It is obtained from different varieties of brown seaweed.

Background

Alginic acid, also referred to as algin or alginate, is a hydrophilic or anionic polysaccharide isolated from certain brown seaweed (Phacophycae) via alkaline extraction. It is present in cell walls of brown algae where it forms a viscous gel when binding with water. Alginic acid is a linear polymer consisted of L-glucuronic acid and D-mannuronic acid residues connected via 1,4-glycosidic linkages . Available in different types of salt, alginic acid has been used in a variety of uses in food, cosmetics and pharmaceu-tical products for over 100 years . Alginic acid is an FDA-approved food ingredient in soup and soup mixes as an emulsifier, thickener, and stabilizer . It is also available in oral dietary supplements and is found in antacids such as Gaviscon to inhibit gastroesophageal reflux by creating a physical barrier in presence of gastric acid . Alginate-based raft-forming formulations in the management of heartburn and gastric acid reflux have been used worldwide for over 30 years .

Indications

Indicated for the management of gastric reflux, reflux oesophagitis, hiatus hernia, heartburn (including heartburn of pregnancy) and similar gastric distress .

Pharmacokinetics

Alginic acid reduces reflux via its floating, foaming, and viscous properties . Alginic acid precipitates upon contact with gastric acid to create a mechanical barrier, or a "raft", that displaces the postprandial acid pocket . The formation of a raft is thought to occur rapidly, often within a few seconds of dosing . In clinical trials, alginic acid was effective in reducing the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) . In healthy volunteers, alginic acid in combination with an antacid was effective in decreasing postprandial reflux in the upright position . Alginic acid is able to bind to cations when ingested .

Metabolism

This pharmacokinetic parameter is unlikely to apply for alginic acid.