ENO Powder: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

ENO Powder is an effervescent antacid containing sodium bicarbonate and citric acid, used for quick relief from acidity, heartburn, acid indigestion, and a sour or upset stomach. It works by neutralizing excess stomach acid once dissolved in water. It is recommended for adults and children aged 12 years and above, with specific precautions for people with kidney, liver, or heart conditions.

What is ENO Powder

ENO Powder is an effervescent antacid medicine used for quick relief from acidity, heartburn, acid indigestion, and a sour or upset stomach.

ENO Powder uses

• Relief from acidity
• Relief from heartburn
• Helps with acid indigestion
• Relieves sour stomach
• Helps reduce stomach discomfort caused by excess acid

Benefits of ENO Powder

• Provides quick relief from acidity.
• Helps relieve heartburn and burning discomfort.
• Relieves acid indigestion and sour stomach.
• Helps ease an upset stomach caused by excess stomach acid.

How ENO Powder works

ENO Powder works by neutralizing excess acid in the stomach. When dissolved in water, its ingredients react and form an effervescent solution that helps reduce stomach acidity, providing quick relief from heartburn, acid indigestion, and sour stomach.

ENO Powder dosage

Empty 1 sachet (5 g) or 1 teaspoonful of ENO Powder into a glass containing about 150 mL of water. Allow it to dissolve and fizz, then drink the solution. If needed, another dose may be taken after 2–3 hours. Do not take more than 2 doses in 24 hours. It is recommended for adults and children aged 12 years and above; it is not recommended for children under 12.

Available forms and strengths

• Effervescent Powder — 5 g per sachet/teaspoonful

Side effects of ENO Powder

Common

• Burping or belching
• Gas or bloating
• Mild stomach discomfort
• Nausea

Serious

• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Swelling of the feet, ankles, or hands
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe weakness, confusion, or muscle cramps
• Signs of electrolyte or acid–base imbalance, especially after excessive or prolonged use
• Allergic reaction such as rash, facial swelling, or trouble breathing

Warnings and precautions

• Do not use if you have kidney, liver, or heart problems.
• Avoid if you have high blood pressure or are on a low-sodium/low-salt diet.
• Do not use if you are allergic to any ingredient.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose or use continuously for more than 14 days.
• ENO may affect the absorption of other medicines, so check with a doctor or pharmacist if you take regular medication.
• Consult a doctor before using ENO during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Avoid ENO if you have impaired kidney function unless specifically advised by a doctor, because its sodium/alkali content may cause problems. 
• Avoid ENO if you have impaired liver function unless your doctor advises otherwise. No major direct interaction with alcohol is established, but alcohol can worsen acidity and heartburn, so limiting or avoiding it is advisable. 
• ENO has no significant effect on driving or operating machinery when used as directed.

Storage

• Store below 30°C (86°F) or as stated on the product label.
• Keep in a cool, dry place.
• Protect from moisture and humidity.
• Keep the container/sachet tightly sealed until use.
• Keep out of reach of children.

When to see a doctor

Seek medical advice if acidity persists or worsens, especially after 14 days, or if you have persistent vomiting, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or severe abdominal pain. Get urgent medical attention for chest pressure/pain, shortness of breath, vomiting blood, or black/tarry stools, as these may indicate a more serious condition.

Alternatives

• Magnesium Hydroxide
• Famotidine
• Pantoprazole