Andrews Original Salts 19.5%/17.4%/22.6% – 250g
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What Are Andrews Original Salts 250g Used For?
Andrews Original Salts is one of Britain's most trusted and long-established digestive remedies, cherished by generations of families for its gentle, triple-action relief from indigestion, upset stomach, and occasional constipation. The 250g tin is the economy-sized format of the same classic formula, providing a more generous household supply for those who use Andrews regularly or simply prefer to buy less often. Whether kept in the kitchen cupboard for after overindulgent meals, or on standby in the bathroom cabinet for when digestive discomfort strikes, the 250g tin offers excellent value alongside the familiar, reliably gentle action that has made Andrews a British institution.
When a level 5ml spoonful of the granular powder is dissolved in half a glass of cold water, citric acid and sodium bicarbonate react together in a characteristic effervescent fizz to produce a sparkling, lemon-flavoured solution. Sodium bicarbonate, the primary antacid component at 22.6% w/w, directly neutralises excess gastric acid on ingestion, raising stomach pH and providing prompt relief from the burning discomfort of indigestion and heartburn. Citric acid at 19.5% w/w drives the effervescent reaction, contributes to the pleasant tangy lemon flavour, and helps to maintain the stability of the dry powder in the tin. Magnesium sulphate at 17.4% w/w provides the gentle laxative element, working as an osmotic saline laxative in the large intestine to draw water into the bowel, soften the stool, and stimulate a gentle bowel movement — relieving the occasional constipation that often accompanies overeating or digestive upset.
The 250g tin provides a substantially more generous supply than the 150g tin, making it a practical choice for households where Andrews is a regular fixture in the medicine cabinet, or for those with a genuine recurring need for occasional digestive relief. All clinical guidance, dosage, and precautions are identical to the 150g variant — the larger size does not imply that more frequent or higher doses are appropriate, and the recommendation to seek pharmacist or GP advice before using for more than 7 consecutive days applies equally to both sizes.
Andrews is suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over. Those with severe kidney disease must not use it due to the magnesium sulphate content. Those on sodium-restricted diets should be aware of the sodium contribution per dose. For persistent, recurrent, or severe digestive symptoms, always seek advice from a Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist or your GP rather than relying on regular self-treatment. You can also browse our full digestive health range.
How to Use Andrews Original Salts 250g
- Measure one level 5ml spoonful of powder. Use the spoon provided in the tin or a calibrated 5ml medicine measuring spoon for an accurate dose.
- Add to half a glass of cold water. Pour approximately 100–150ml of cold water into a glass, add the measured powder, and stir briefly. The powder will effervesce and dissolve within seconds.
- Drink while still effervescent. Consume the solution while it is still sparkling for the best experience and optimal effect.
- Repeat after 30 minutes if required. A second dose may be taken after at least 30 minutes. Do not exceed 2 doses in 24 hours.
- Replace the tin lid tightly after every use. This is essential — moisture will cause the powder to clump and lose its effervescent properties.
Practical tips for the 250g tin
- Store the tin in a cool, dry location — a kitchen cupboard or bathroom cabinet that does not experience significant humidity is ideal. Avoid storing near the kettle, sink, or shower where steam regularly reaches.
- Write the opening date on the tin label if you wish to track how long it has been open.
- Take any other medicines at least 2 hours before or after Andrews to minimise absorption interactions.
- The laxative effect from magnesium sulphate typically develops within 30 minutes to a few hours — plan timing of doses accordingly.
Andrews Original Salts 250g Side Effects
Common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people)
- Loose stools or mild diarrhoea — the expected laxative effect of magnesium sulphate; degree varies between individuals
- Increased wind or bloating from the effervescent carbon dioxide reaction
Less common side effects (may affect between 1 in 10 and 1 in 100 people)
- Stomach cramps associated with the laxative effect
- Nausea, particularly with higher doses
Rare side effects (may affect fewer than 1 in 100 people)
- Hypermagnesaemia with excessive or prolonged use, particularly in those with renal impairment — symptoms include muscle weakness, confusion, irregular heartbeat; seek urgent medical advice
- Electrolyte disturbance with prolonged excessive use
- Allergic reaction to any ingredient
Stop using and seek medical help if you experience:
- Severe or persistent diarrhoea or abdominal pain
- Muscle weakness, unusual fatigue, or confusion
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction — call 999 immediately
Report any unexpected reaction via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk or speak to your Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist.
How to Store Andrews Original Salts 250g
- Temperature: Store below 25°C in a dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat and moisture.
- Tin lid: Replace tightly after every use without exception. Moisture causes the powder to react prematurely and become unusable — this is the single most important storage instruction for Andrews.
- Avoid damp locations: Do not store near a kettle, sink, shower, or other source of steam or atmospheric moisture.
- Children: Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
- Expiry: Do not use after the best before date on the tin. Check the base or lid of the 250g tin for the date.
- Disposal: Dispose of any unused powder responsibly.
Who Are Andrews Original Salts 250g Suitable For?
Andrews Original Salts 250g are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who experience indigestion, upset stomach, and occasional constipation, and who prefer or require an economy-sized supply for regular or household use.
Suitable for:
- Adults and young people aged 12 and over with indigestion, heartburn, and acid-related stomach discomfort
- Those experiencing occasional constipation associated with digestive upset or overindulgence
- Those who use Andrews regularly and prefer the economy value of the 250g tin
- Households where more than one person uses the product
Not suitable for:
- Children under 12 years without medical advice
- Those with severe renal (kidney) impairment — magnesium sulphate can accumulate dangerously
- Those with inflammatory bowel disease or intestinal obstruction
- Anyone with a known hypersensitivity to any ingredient
Use with caution or seek advice first if you:
- Are on a sodium-restricted diet — significant sodium per dose from sodium bicarbonate
- Have mild to moderate renal impairment
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Take any regular medicines — antacids can affect absorption of many drugs; separate by at least 2 hours
Our Pearl Chemist Group pharmacists can advise on appropriate digestive relief options.
Active Ingredients in Andrews Original Salts 250g
| Ingredient | Percentage w/w | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Citric acid | 19.5% w/w | Reacts with sodium bicarbonate to produce the characteristic effervescent dissolving action. Also contributes to the antacid buffering and the pleasant lemon flavour of the dissolved solution. |
| Magnesium sulphate | 17.4% w/w | Mild osmotic saline laxative. Acts in the large intestine to draw water into the bowel, softening the stool and stimulating a gentle laxative effect for relief of occasional constipation. |
| Sodium bicarbonate | 22.6% w/w | Primary antacid ingredient. Directly neutralises excess stomach acid to provide prompt relief from indigestion and heartburn. Also drives the effervescent reaction with citric acid. Source of significant sodium per dose. |
Andrews Original Salts 250g Dosage — How Much to Take
Adults and young people aged 12 and over
- Dose: One level 5ml spoonful (approximately 6g) per dose.
- How to prepare: Dissolve in half a glass of cold water (approximately 100–150ml) and drink while still sparkling.
- Frequency: Up to twice in 24 hours. Allow at least 30 minutes between doses.
- Maximum daily dose: 2 doses in any 24-hour period.
Children under 12 years
Not recommended without medical advice.
Important note for the 250g tin
- The larger pack size does not alter the recommended dose — always take one level 5ml spoonful per dose.
- Do not exceed 2 doses in 24 hours regardless of remaining stock.
- Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days without pharmacist or GP advice.
- Allow at least 2 hours between Andrews and any other oral medicines.
Precautions When Using Andrews Original Salts 250g
- Always replace the tin lid tightly after every use to prevent moisture ingress.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from steam and humidity.
- Measure doses accurately — one level 5ml spoonful per dose.
- Do not exceed 2 doses in 24 hours.
- Take other medicines at least 2 hours before or after each Andrews dose.
- Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days without pharmacist or GP guidance.
- Confirm no severe renal impairment before use.
- Seek medical advice if symptoms are persistent, recurrent, or accompanied by difficulty swallowing, vomiting, weight loss, or blood in stools.
Our Pearl Chemist Group pharmacists offer free consultations and can advise on digestive health management.
Full Ingredients in Andrews Original Salts 250g
Active ingredients: citric acid 19.5% w/w; magnesium sulphate 17.4% w/w; sodium bicarbonate 22.6% w/w. Formulation is identical to the 150g tin.
Excipients (inactive ingredients)
- Saccharin sodium — artificial sweetener providing sweetness and palatability without sugar
- Lemon flavour — the characteristic fresh lemon taste of the dissolved Andrews solution
This product contains significant sodium per dose. Those on medically supervised sodium-restricted diets should consult a Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist before regular use.
Last reviewed: May 2026.
Always read the patient information leaflet before use. A copy is included with the pack. For advice, speak to a Pearl Chemist pharmacist or call +44 (0)20 8672 2157.
What Are Andrews Original Salts 250g Used For?
Andrews Original Salts is one of Britain's most trusted and long-established digestive remedies, cherished by generations of families for its gentle, triple-action relief from indigestion, upset stomach, and occasional constipation. The 250g tin is the economy-sized format of the same classic formula, providing a more generous household supply for those who use Andrews regularly or simply prefer to buy less often. Whether kept in the kitchen cupboard for after overindulgent meals, or on standby in the bathroom cabinet for when digestive discomfort strikes, the 250g tin offers excellent value alongside the familiar, reliably gentle action that has made Andrews a British institution.
When a level 5ml spoonful of the granular powder is dissolved in half a glass of cold water, citric acid and sodium bicarbonate react together in a characteristic effervescent fizz to produce a sparkling, lemon-flavoured solution. Sodium bicarbonate, the primary antacid component at 22.6% w/w, directly neutralises excess gastric acid on ingestion, raising stomach pH and providing prompt relief from the burning discomfort of indigestion and heartburn. Citric acid at 19.5% w/w drives the effervescent reaction, contributes to the pleasant tangy lemon flavour, and helps to maintain the stability of the dry powder in the tin. Magnesium sulphate at 17.4% w/w provides the gentle laxative element, working as an osmotic saline laxative in the large intestine to draw water into the bowel, soften the stool, and stimulate a gentle bowel movement — relieving the occasional constipation that often accompanies overeating or digestive upset.
The 250g tin provides a substantially more generous supply than the 150g tin, making it a practical choice for households where Andrews is a regular fixture in the medicine cabinet, or for those with a genuine recurring need for occasional digestive relief. All clinical guidance, dosage, and precautions are identical to the 150g variant — the larger size does not imply that more frequent or higher doses are appropriate, and the recommendation to seek pharmacist or GP advice before using for more than 7 consecutive days applies equally to both sizes.
Andrews is suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over. Those with severe kidney disease must not use it due to the magnesium sulphate content. Those on sodium-restricted diets should be aware of the sodium contribution per dose. For persistent, recurrent, or severe digestive symptoms, always seek advice from a Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist or your GP rather than relying on regular self-treatment. You can also browse our full digestive health range.
How to Use Andrews Original Salts 250g
- Measure one level 5ml spoonful of powder. Use the spoon provided in the tin or a calibrated 5ml medicine measuring spoon for an accurate dose.
- Add to half a glass of cold water. Pour approximately 100–150ml of cold water into a glass, add the measured powder, and stir briefly. The powder will effervesce and dissolve within seconds.
- Drink while still effervescent. Consume the solution while it is still sparkling for the best experience and optimal effect.
- Repeat after 30 minutes if required. A second dose may be taken after at least 30 minutes. Do not exceed 2 doses in 24 hours.
- Replace the tin lid tightly after every use. This is essential — moisture will cause the powder to clump and lose its effervescent properties.
Practical tips for the 250g tin
- Store the tin in a cool, dry location — a kitchen cupboard or bathroom cabinet that does not experience significant humidity is ideal. Avoid storing near the kettle, sink, or shower where steam regularly reaches.
- Write the opening date on the tin label if you wish to track how long it has been open.
- Take any other medicines at least 2 hours before or after Andrews to minimise absorption interactions.
- The laxative effect from magnesium sulphate typically develops within 30 minutes to a few hours — plan timing of doses accordingly.
Andrews Original Salts 250g Side Effects
Common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people)
- Loose stools or mild diarrhoea — the expected laxative effect of magnesium sulphate; degree varies between individuals
- Increased wind or bloating from the effervescent carbon dioxide reaction
Less common side effects (may affect between 1 in 10 and 1 in 100 people)
- Stomach cramps associated with the laxative effect
- Nausea, particularly with higher doses
Rare side effects (may affect fewer than 1 in 100 people)
- Hypermagnesaemia with excessive or prolonged use, particularly in those with renal impairment — symptoms include muscle weakness, confusion, irregular heartbeat; seek urgent medical advice
- Electrolyte disturbance with prolonged excessive use
- Allergic reaction to any ingredient
Stop using and seek medical help if you experience:
- Severe or persistent diarrhoea or abdominal pain
- Muscle weakness, unusual fatigue, or confusion
- Signs of a serious allergic reaction — call 999 immediately
Report any unexpected reaction via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk or speak to your Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist.
How to Store Andrews Original Salts 250g
- Temperature: Store below 25°C in a dry place. Keep away from direct sunlight and sources of heat and moisture.
- Tin lid: Replace tightly after every use without exception. Moisture causes the powder to react prematurely and become unusable — this is the single most important storage instruction for Andrews.
- Avoid damp locations: Do not store near a kettle, sink, shower, or other source of steam or atmospheric moisture.
- Children: Keep out of the sight and reach of children.
- Expiry: Do not use after the best before date on the tin. Check the base or lid of the 250g tin for the date.
- Disposal: Dispose of any unused powder responsibly.
Who Are Andrews Original Salts 250g Suitable For?
Andrews Original Salts 250g are suitable for adults and young people aged 12 and over who experience indigestion, upset stomach, and occasional constipation, and who prefer or require an economy-sized supply for regular or household use.
Suitable for:
- Adults and young people aged 12 and over with indigestion, heartburn, and acid-related stomach discomfort
- Those experiencing occasional constipation associated with digestive upset or overindulgence
- Those who use Andrews regularly and prefer the economy value of the 250g tin
- Households where more than one person uses the product
Not suitable for:
- Children under 12 years without medical advice
- Those with severe renal (kidney) impairment — magnesium sulphate can accumulate dangerously
- Those with inflammatory bowel disease or intestinal obstruction
- Anyone with a known hypersensitivity to any ingredient
Use with caution or seek advice first if you:
- Are on a sodium-restricted diet — significant sodium per dose from sodium bicarbonate
- Have mild to moderate renal impairment
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Take any regular medicines — antacids can affect absorption of many drugs; separate by at least 2 hours
Our Pearl Chemist Group pharmacists can advise on appropriate digestive relief options.
Active Ingredients in Andrews Original Salts 250g
| Ingredient | Percentage w/w | Role |
|---|---|---|
| Citric acid | 19.5% w/w | Reacts with sodium bicarbonate to produce the characteristic effervescent dissolving action. Also contributes to the antacid buffering and the pleasant lemon flavour of the dissolved solution. |
| Magnesium sulphate | 17.4% w/w | Mild osmotic saline laxative. Acts in the large intestine to draw water into the bowel, softening the stool and stimulating a gentle laxative effect for relief of occasional constipation. |
| Sodium bicarbonate | 22.6% w/w | Primary antacid ingredient. Directly neutralises excess stomach acid to provide prompt relief from indigestion and heartburn. Also drives the effervescent reaction with citric acid. Source of significant sodium per dose. |
Andrews Original Salts 250g Dosage — How Much to Take
Adults and young people aged 12 and over
- Dose: One level 5ml spoonful (approximately 6g) per dose.
- How to prepare: Dissolve in half a glass of cold water (approximately 100–150ml) and drink while still sparkling.
- Frequency: Up to twice in 24 hours. Allow at least 30 minutes between doses.
- Maximum daily dose: 2 doses in any 24-hour period.
Children under 12 years
Not recommended without medical advice.
Important note for the 250g tin
- The larger pack size does not alter the recommended dose — always take one level 5ml spoonful per dose.
- Do not exceed 2 doses in 24 hours regardless of remaining stock.
- Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days without pharmacist or GP advice.
- Allow at least 2 hours between Andrews and any other oral medicines.
Precautions When Using Andrews Original Salts 250g
- Always replace the tin lid tightly after every use to prevent moisture ingress.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from steam and humidity.
- Measure doses accurately — one level 5ml spoonful per dose.
- Do not exceed 2 doses in 24 hours.
- Take other medicines at least 2 hours before or after each Andrews dose.
- Do not use for more than 7 consecutive days without pharmacist or GP guidance.
- Confirm no severe renal impairment before use.
- Seek medical advice if symptoms are persistent, recurrent, or accompanied by difficulty swallowing, vomiting, weight loss, or blood in stools.
Our Pearl Chemist Group pharmacists offer free consultations and can advise on digestive health management.
Full Ingredients in Andrews Original Salts 250g
Active ingredients: citric acid 19.5% w/w; magnesium sulphate 17.4% w/w; sodium bicarbonate 22.6% w/w. Formulation is identical to the 150g tin.
Excipients (inactive ingredients)
- Saccharin sodium — artificial sweetener providing sweetness and palatability without sugar
- Lemon flavour — the characteristic fresh lemon taste of the dissolved Andrews solution
This product contains significant sodium per dose. Those on medically supervised sodium-restricted diets should consult a Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist before regular use.
Last reviewed: May 2026.
Always read the patient information leaflet before use. A copy is included with the pack. For advice, speak to a Pearl Chemist pharmacist or call +44 (0)20 8672 2157.
FAQs
Is the 250g tin the same formula as the 150g tin?
Yes. Andrews Original Salts 250g contains exactly the same formulation as the 150g tin — citric acid 19.5% w/w, magnesium sulphate 17.4% w/w, and sodium bicarbonate 22.6% w/w, with saccharin sodium and lemon flavour as excipients. The 250g tin simply provides a larger quantity of the same powder at better value per gram for those who use the product regularly or prefer to stock up less frequently. All dosage instructions, warnings, and precautions are identical for both sizes.
Does the larger tin mean I can take more per dose?
No. The recommended dose remains one level 5ml spoonful per dose, and the maximum remains two doses in any 24-hour period, regardless of the pack size. The 250g tin is an economy format — it does not indicate that higher or more frequent doses are appropriate. Always measure carefully using a 5ml spoon and follow the dosage guidance exactly.
Why is it so important to keep the tin tightly closed?
Andrews powder consists of sodium bicarbonate and citric acid. When these two substances encounter moisture — even the atmospheric humidity present in most homes — they begin to react with each other, producing carbon dioxide and gradually losing their effervescent properties. If the tin is left open or not sealed properly between uses, the powder will absorb moisture, the granules will clump and potentially set hard, and the remaining powder may not dissolve and fizz properly when needed. Always replace the lid securely after every use, and store the tin in a dry location away from steam and humidity.
How many doses does the 250g tin provide?
At the standard dose of approximately 6g per level 5ml spoonful, the 250g tin provides approximately 40 individual doses. At the maximum of two doses per day, this represents approximately 20 days of maximum use. In practice, most people use Andrews on an as-needed basis rather than daily, so the 250g tin typically provides a considerably longer practical supply than the maximum-use calculation suggests.
Can I use Andrews regularly as a daily digestive aid?
Andrews is designed for as-needed relief of indigestion and occasional constipation, not for daily regular use as a maintenance digestive supplement. Using Andrews for more than 7 consecutive days without seeking pharmacist or GP advice is not recommended. Frequent or daily digestive discomfort that requires regular antacid or laxative use should be assessed medically to identify and address the underlying cause. Speak to your Pearl Chemist Group pharmacist or GP if you find yourself reaching for Andrews on a very regular basis.