Tums vs Rolaids during pregnancy

How do the options compare?

The comparison below weighs mainstream OB guideline standing, the depth of the pregnancy evidence base, dosing clarity, expected onset, and interactions worth flagging to your provider.

• Directed calcium carbonate use is not expected to raise the background chance of birth defects, pregnancy loss, early delivery, or low birth weight, but amounts above recommendations can cause serious maternal and newborn complications. 1
• Tums Regular Strength contains 500 mg calcium carbonate and 200 mg elemental calcium per tablet; its label limits pregnancy use to 10 tablets in 24 hours and limits maximum use to two weeks without medical supervision. 2
• Rolaids Original contains 675 mg calcium carbonate plus 135 mg magnesium hydroxide per tablet, providing 270 mg elemental calcium and 60 mg magnesium; its label directs pregnant users to ask a health professional before use. 3
• A pregnancy reflux review recommends calcium-, aluminum-, or magnesium-containing antacids as needed after lifestyle measures and warns against excessive calcium carbonate intake. 4
• Calcium-containing antacids can cause constipation, while magnesium-containing antacids can cause diarrhea and can be unsafe with renal insufficiency; this does not prove that a combination product will balance bowel effects for an individual. 5

Which option makes sense?

The options above differ in their evidence, limitations, and suitability. Inclusion in this comparison is not a recommendation. Please consult your healthcare provider before making a decision based on these findings.

Disclosure: Pregnancy Smart makes supplements that overlap with some options above. This comparison describes the evidence, not our own product; where our formulation is relevant it is named.