Also known as: Algin
Alginic acid is a polysaccharide distributed widely in the cell walls of brown algae which is hydrophilic and forms a viscous gum when hydrated. Its salts with metals such as sodium and calcium are known as alginates. It is a significant component of the biofilms produced by the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a major pathogen found in the lungs of some people who have cystic fibrosis. The biofilm and P. aeruginosa have a high resistance to antibiotics and are susceptible to inhibition by macrophages. Its colour ranges from white to yellowish-brown. It is sold in filamentous, granular or powdered forms.
This medicinal substance has been classified in the anatomical therapeutic chemical (ATC) classification according to its main therapeutic use as follows:
Alginic acid is the active ingredient of these drugs:
Alginic acid is also found within below combination drugs:
ACIDEX , ACIDEX ADVANCE , GALIEVE , GASTROCOTE , GAVISCON , GAVISCON ADVANCE , GAVISCON INFANT , GAVISCON NOURRISSONS , GAVISCON-L , GEALCID , GELACID , LUFTAGASTROPRO , MAALOX HRF , MAALOX REFLUX , PEPTAC