Rolaids and Tums are two of the most common antacid brands sold over the counter, used to treat heartburn and indigestion. Both these products work by neutralizing stomach acid. However, the Difference Between Rolaids and Tums can be seen in their active ingredients, how they work, and other characteristics. Rolaids are mainly known for their combination of calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide, while Tums contain calcium carbonate as their only active ingredient.
The two are given more based on personal preference, symptoms that need to be addressed, or doctor’s recommendation. A while back, for instance, Rolaids was considered better for heartburn relief because of magnesium. Tums, on the other hand, could be used more for a calcium content that could enhance the strengthening of bones.
Both can be found in the market and can also work well; it all has to be known in order to make the best choice. With both of these options available in the market, it is quite easy for a consumer to find a solution for his or her occasional digestive discomfort.
Main Difference Between Rolaids and Tums
Tums may offer longer-lasting relief compared to Rolaids. Tums provide a good source of calcium, which benefits bone health, unlike Rolaids.
Rolaids Vs. Tums
What is Rolaids?
Rolaids is one of the more common brands of antacids. They are taken to reduce heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomachs. It can be taken in the form of chewable tablets or liquid. It is the most convenient when one has to be on the move throughout the day. The active ingredients of Rolaids include calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide. Calcium carbonate helps in neutralizing the acid in the stomach. Magnesium hydroxide reduces the acidity even more.
Rolaids is recommended to many people because they want something to give them immediate relief in the case of heartburn; its action usually takes place a little while after the product has been ingested. Magnesium helps ensure regular bowel movement; hence, it helps prevent constipation, which could be the case when using other antacids.
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Rolaids has been a trusted name for over 80 years and is one of the best-selling brands on the market. Apart from heartburn and indigestion, Rolaids is also sold as a product to supplement the body with extra magnesium and calcium. For those who have insufficient amounts of these minerals, this is very effective. Rolaids come in various tastes, including mint and fruit, making them more palatable for children as well as adults. Importantly, it must be stated that though Rolaids will ease heartburn and indigestion, they are to be taken according to directions, and its long-term intake may pose some complications, like kidney problems, since its content of calcium is relatively high.
What is TUMS?
Tums is another of the most common antacid brands in use, working on the main basis of neutralizing the stomach acids. It contains calcium carbonate, the substance that makes it a neutralizer of acidity in the stomach. Tums react with hydrochloric acid in the stomach to produce carbon dioxide, which is released from the body. This results in immediate relief from heartburn, acid indigestion, and discomfort from acid reflux. Tums are unlike Rolaids because they contain only calcium carbonate and do not contain magnesium. Therefore, for a single-ingredient remedy, Tums would be simpler for those experiencing digestive issues.
Read Also: Difference Between Capsules and Tablets
Tums come in chewable tablets and in flavors such as orange, berry, and mint. It has been a staple in homes for over 90 years and is recommended for those who have occasional heartburn or acid reflux. Tums, besides assisting with digestive problems, offer a source of calcium, which is important for the health of the bones. It can be useful for those individuals who do not get enough calcium from other sources in their diet. Similar to Rolaids, Tums should not be taken over the long term, especially in patients with kidney or calcium-related diseases. It is always best to follow the dosage recommendations provided on the packaging or by a doctor.
Comparison Table “Rolaids Vs. Tums”
| Active Ingredients | Calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide | Calcium carbonate |
| Available Forms | Chewable tablets, liquid | Chewable tablets |
| Speed of Relief | Faster due to magnesium content | Slower, but longer-lasting relief |
| Flavor Options | Mint, fruit | Orange, berry, mint |
| Price | Slightly more expensive | Generally cheaper |
| Calcium | Contains calcium | Rich in calcium |
| Additional Benefits | Helps with bowel regularity due to magnesium | Helps with bone health |
Difference Between Rolaids and Tums in Detail
Get to know the Difference Between Rolaids Vs. Tums in Detail.
Active Ingredients
Rolaids contain a combination of calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide, whereas Tums only contain calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate neutralizes stomach acid, and magnesium hydroxide enhances this effect and may help with bowel movements. The extra magnesium in Rolaids may provide quicker relief for some users.
Speed of Relief
Rolaids are usually faster than Tums. This is because the magnesium hydroxide in Rolaids reacts with the acid in the stomach more quickly. Tums, which contain only calcium carbonate, might take a little longer to decrease stomach acidity.
Formulations Available
Both Rolaids and Tums are available in chewable tablets, but Rolaids is also available in liquid form. Tums are not available in liquid form. This means those who prefer the liquid form of antacids may opt for Rolaids.
Calcium Content
Tums provide a lot of calcium in one tablet, which would be useful to people who need more calcium to help with their bones. Rolaids, although it does contain calcium, also contains magnesium, which could be the best for people seeking both calcium and magnesium.
Side Effects
Rolaids may cause constipation due to the high levels of calcium and magnesium. On the other hand, Tums may cause bloating or a mild upset stomach. Both products are generally safe when used as directed, but long-term use could lead to kidney issues.
Taste and Flavor
The availability of flavors of Tums ranges from berry to orange to mint, making it more palatable for both kids and adults. Rolaids also have some flavors, such as mint and fruit. However, for some users, Tums have a more intense flavor.
Price and Availability
Both Rolaids and Tums are widely available and affordable, but Tums are often considered slightly cheaper. The price varies depending on the size of the pack, but both brands are commonly stocked in pharmacies and grocery stores.
Key Difference Between Mylanta and Pepto Bismol
Here are the key points showing the Difference Between Rolaids Vs. Tums.
- Active Ingredients
Rolaids have calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide, while Tums contain only calcium carbonate. - Calcium and Magnesium
Rolaids offer both calcium and magnesium, while Tums offers calcium only. - Speed of Action
Rolaids may act faster due to the added magnesium. - Form
Rolaids are available in both chewable tablets and liquid form; Tums are available only in chewable form. - Taste Options
Tums offers more flavor options like orange and berry, while Rolaids typically offers mint and fruit flavors. - Side Effects
Rolaids may cause constipation, whereas Tums can lead to bloating. - Targeted Use
Rolaids is often recommended for faster relief of heartburn, while Tums is for more long-term, mild relief. - Price Range
Tums tend to be a bit cheaper than Rolaids, depending on the store. - Magnesium Benefits
Rolaids contain magnesium, which can help with bowel regularity. - Brand History
Tums have been on the market for over 90 years, while Rolaids have been around for over 80 years. - Safety for Long-Term Use
Long-term use of either product should be discussed with a doctor, but Tums is often seen as safer for regular use. - Acidity Levels
Rolaids neutralize stomach acid slightly more aggressively due to the magnesium content. - Uses Beyond Heartburn
Rolaids may provide relief from both heartburn and constipation, while Tums mainly target acid reflux and heartburn. - Dietary Considerations
Both products are safe for most people, but Tums may be better for those looking for a simpler antacid without added magnesium. - Packaging Options
Tums are often sold in small, convenient packages, making it easy to carry, while Rolaids often come in larger packs.
FAQs: Rolaids Vs. Tums
Conclusion:
In conclusion, both of them are effective in treating heartburn and indigestion. However, the Difference Between Rolaids and Tums shows that one is better suited for specific needs. Rolaids combine the two bases, calcium carbonate, and magnesium hydroxide, to neutralize stomach acid within a shorter time period, while Tums, with its single ingredient, calcium carbonate, provides for longer relief from acid.
Additional benefits of the two antacids include offering supplemental calcium, which is essential to building strong bones, but it also has adverse side effects that might be exhibited through constipation for Rolaids or just an easily upset stomach in the case of Tums. However, a health provider must be consulted to decide on which product will be the best fit for personal health issues and preferences. On the whole, knowledge of what both do and their active ingredients will be the key to deciding on a remedy for acid-related discomfort.
