The Role of Alginate Rafts in Treating GERD and Silent Reflux (LPR)

One of the most underappreciated yet effective treatments for GERD and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) is the use of alginate rafts. The sodium alginate in Refluxter interacts with sodium bicarbonate and calcium carbonate upon contact with stomach acid, forming a low-density, viscous gel raft. This raft sits atop the acid pocket—a highly acidic, unbuffered region of gastric secretions that forms after eating—effectively preventing acidic contents from refluxing into the esophagus.

The Immediate and Lasting Benefits of Alginate

One of the key advantages of alginate therapy is its rapid onset of action. Unlike PPIs and H2 receptor antagonists, which take time to suppress acid production, alginate formulations work instantly. When taken together, sodium alginate, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium carbonate form a raft within minutes, providing immediate relief from reflux symptoms.

Scientific Support for Alginate Therapy

A systematic review of alginate therapy found strong in vitro and in vivo evidence demonstrating its immediate therapeutic effects, often within an hour of administration. Compared to antacids, alginate-based formulations are more effective at reducing postprandial esophageal acid exposure and alleviating symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, vomiting, and belching. Notably, alginate therapy has been shown to be not worse than omeprazole in achieving heartburn relief for patients experiencing moderate episodic symptoms (Bor et al., 2019).

Further research highlights its efficacy in specific patient populations. In one study, volunteers with symptomatic GERD and hiatal hernias were divided into two groups: one received an alginate-antacid preparation, while the other took a non-raft-forming antacid. Following a meal, participants reported reflux episodes. The alginate group experienced significantly fewer episodes than those in the control group, demonstrating the superior protective properties of alginate therapy (Leiman et al., 2017).

A separate study examined 100 outpatients with laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), also known as silent reflux. Patients received alginate therapy for two months, with symptom assessments conducted at baseline and at 15, 30, and 60 days post-treatment. Using a visual analog scale, researchers measured perceptions of dysphonia (voice issues), dysphagia (swallowing difficulty), and chronic cough. Results indicated a statistically significant (p<0.0001) reduction in all measured symptoms, confirming alginate’s effectiveness and safety in treating silent reflux (Ciprandi et al., 2021).

Safe and Effective Use During Pregnancy

Alginate-based reflux suppressants are a particularly attractive option for pregnant individuals who frequently experience heartburn and regurgitation. Clinical studies have demonstrated that alginate-based therapy is as effective or superior to traditional antacids in relieving these symptoms. Due to its physical mode of action rather than systemic absorption, it is regarded as a safe and reliable treatment option during pregnancy (Meteerattanapipat & Phupong, 2017).

Why Choose Refluxter?

Refluxter’s unique, non-systemic mechanism of action provides rapid and long-lasting (up to 4 hours) relief from acid reflux and related conditions, including heartburn, GERD, and LPR. Unlike PPIs, which suppress acid production, Refluxter forms a physical barrier that prevents acid from rising into the esophagus.

Additionally, Refluxter offers peace of mind—it can be taken long-term without significant side effects, making it a safe and effective alternative to traditional GERD medications.

References

• Bor, S., Kalkan, İ. H., Çelebi, A., Dinçer, D., Akyüz, F., Dettmar, P., & Özen, H. (2019). Alginates: From the ocean to gastroesophageal reflux disease treatment. Turkish Journal of Gastroenterology, 30(Suppl 2), S116. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6836317/
• Ciprandi, G., Damiani, V., Passali, F. M., Crisanti, A., Motta, G., & Passali, D. (2021). Magnesium alginate in patients with laryngopharyngeal reflux. Journal of Biological Regulators and Homeostatic Agents, 35(1 Suppl 2), 61-64. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33982541/
• Jaynes, M., & Kumar, A. B. (2019). The risks of long-term use of proton pump inhibitors: A critical review. Therapeutic Advances in Drug Safety, 10,2042098618809927. https://doi.org/10.1177/2042098618809927
• Leiman, D. A., Riff, B. P., Morgan, S., Metz, D. C., Falk, G. W., French, B., et al. (2017). Alginate therapy is effective treatment for GERD symptoms: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Diseases of the Esophagus, 30(5), 19. https://doi.org/10.1093/dote/dow020
• Meteerattanapipat, P., & Phupong, V. (2017). Efficacy of alginate-based reflux suppressant and magnesium-aluminium antacid gel for treatment of heartburn in pregnancy: A randomized double-blind controlled trial. Scientific Reports, 7,44830. https://doi.org/10.1038/srep44830