Following consumer trends, Bayer reformulates certain Alka-Seltzer products

WHIPPANY, N.J.— Bayer last week announced its decision to reformulate certain Alka-Seltzer effervescent products to remove the pain reliever, and related indications, in order to focus exclusively on occasional heartburn and upset stomach relief. 



"The reformulation is based on the consumer trend moving toward single indication products [treating] upset stomach and heartburn," Andre Schmidt, U.S. medical affairs VP for Bayer Consumer Health, told Drug Store News, and not over any concerns of safety, he added.

This effervescent reformulation is consistent with the brand’s ongoing efforts to provide consumers with a range of forms (chews, gummies, effervescent tablets) that provide relief from occasional heartburn and upset stomach. In recent years, the Alka-Seltzer brand has concentrated its consumer innovation in the U.S. on new products that provide focused relief from occasional heartburn and upset stomach.



The reformulation will include Alka-Seltzer Original, Lemon Lime and Extra-Strength effervescent products and the in-store transition will take place following completion of the product reformulation process, Schmidt noted. However, no changes will be made to Alka-Seltzer Heartburn ReliefChews or Gummies, Alka-Seltzer Gold and Alka-Seltzer Heartburn effervescent products, or any Alka-Seltzer Plus cough/cold products, he said.