Standard Dosing for Tums
Tums (calcium carbonate) treats heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach. Adults and children 12+ take 2-4 tablets (500-1000 mg calcium carbonate) as symptoms occur, up to 7 times daily—maximum 15 tablets (7500 mg) in 24 hours. Children 4-11 take half the adult dose; under 4, consult a doctor.[1]
Chew tablets completely before swallowing, and don't take more than 7 days without medical advice.
How Often Can You Take Tums?
Space doses as needed but no more than every 2 hours. Daily limit prevents calcium overload. For frequent heartburn (2+ days/week), see a doctor for underlying causes like GERD.[1][2]
Tums for Calcium Supplementation
For bone health or pregnancy, take 2 tablets (500 mg elemental calcium) 2-4 times daily with meals. Pair with vitamin D; don't exceed 2500 mg elemental calcium daily from all sources to avoid kidney stones or constipation.[1][3]
Differences by Tums Variety
- Regular/Extra Strength: 500 mg or 750 mg calcium carbonate per tablet.
- Smoothies/Ultra: Similar dosing, flavored for easier chewing.
- Kids: Lower strength (400 mg), dosed by weight—1 tablet for 25-48 lbs, max 6/day.
Always check label for exact strength.[1]
What If You Take Too Much?
Overdose risks hypercalcemia: nausea, vomiting, confusion, kidney issues. Seek emergency care if exceeding limits or symptoms appear. Antacids like Tums interact with antibiotics, thyroid meds, and iron—take 2 hours apart.[2][4]
When to Avoid or Adjust Dosing
Skip if you have kidney disease, high calcium levels, or take digoxin. Pregnant/breastfeeding: safe at recommended doses. Diabetics note sugar in some flavors.[1][3]
[1]: Tums Official Site - Dosage
[2]: FDA Label - Calcium Carbonate
[3]: Mayo Clinic - Calcium Supplements
[4]: WebMD - Tums Interactions