CVS Health Maximum Strength Antacid Liquid & Anti-Gas, Vanilla Caramel Flavor, 12 oz

Common questions

Is CVS Health Maximum Strength Antacid Liquid & Anti-Gas, Vanilla Caramel Flavor, 12 oz healthy?

CVS Health Maximum Strength Antacid Liquid & Anti-Gas, Vanilla Caramel Flavor, 12 oz scores 65/100 on Scout's independent analysis of ingredients, additives, and lab results — a fair-to-good score — solid, with tradeoffs. This antacid contains effective active ingredients like aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide, which are beneficial for neutralizing stomach acid and relieving indigestion.

How processed is CVS Health Maximum Strength Antacid Liquid & Anti-Gas, Vanilla Caramel Flavor, 12 oz?

CVS Health Maximum Strength Antacid Liquid & Anti-Gas, Vanilla Caramel Flavor, 12 oz is NOVA Group 3: Processed Foods.

Which ingredients drive CVS Health Maximum Strength Antacid Liquid & Anti-Gas, Vanilla Caramel Flavor, 12 oz's score?

In Scout's ingredient-by-ingredient analysis, Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide count in its favor; Benzyl Alcohol, Flavor, Saccharin Sodium are flagged as ingredients of concern. The full breakdown, with why each one matters, is in the Key ingredients section on this page.

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CVS Health Maximum Strength Antacid Liquid & Anti-Gas, Vanilla Caramel Flavor, 12 oz

65 Fair

Analysis updated October 2026 · How Scout scores

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At a glance

Beneficial ingredients 2
Harmful ingredients 3
Category Supplements
Summary

This antacid contains effective active ingredients like aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide, which are beneficial for neutralizing stomach acid and relieving indigestion. However, the presence of saccharin sodium, an artificial sweetener, and unspecified 'flavor' raises concerns about ingredient transparency and potential artificial components. These factors, along with the moderate level of processing, influence the overall rating.

Key ingredients 11

Aluminum Hydroxide
Good

Aluminum hydroxide is an effective antacid that neutralizes stomach acid. It is commonly used to relieve symptoms of indigestion and heartburn. Its effectiveness in reducing acid makes it a beneficial active ingredient in antacid formulations.

Risks

Excessive use may lead to constipation or phosphate depletion.

Benefits

Provides relief from acid-related discomfort and helps maintain stomach pH balance.

See more about Aluminum Hydroxide →
Magnesium Hydroxide
Good

Magnesium hydroxide acts as both an antacid and a laxative, helping to neutralize stomach acid and relieve constipation. It is a well-tolerated ingredient in over-the-counter antacid products. Its dual action makes it a valuable component in digestive health products.

Risks

Overuse can lead to diarrhea or electrolyte imbalance.

Benefits

Helps alleviate symptoms of indigestion and supports regular bowel movements.

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Simethicone
Neutral

Simethicone is an anti-foaming agent that helps reduce bloating and discomfort caused by excess gas. It is considered safe and effective for relieving gas symptoms. Its inert nature means it does not interact with other medications or affect nutrient absorption.

Benefits

Provides relief from gas-related discomfort without systemic absorption.

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Carboxymethylcellulose Sodium
Neutral

Carboxymethylcellulose sodium is a thickening agent that provides texture and stability to liquid formulations. It is widely used in food and pharmaceutical products. Its inert nature means it does not affect the active ingredients' efficacy.

Benefits

Enhances product consistency and stability without affecting taste or efficacy.

Hypromellose
Neutral

Hypromellose is a cellulose derivative used as a thickener and stabilizer in pharmaceutical products. It is considered safe and inert. Its role in maintaining product consistency is important for user experience.

Benefits

Contributes to the product's texture and stability without affecting active ingredients.

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Microcrystalline Cellulose
Neutral

Microcrystalline cellulose is a common excipient used to provide bulk and improve the texture of pharmaceutical formulations. It is generally recognized as safe and inert. Its use is widespread in the industry due to its stability and non-reactive nature.

Benefits

Improves product texture and stability without impacting active ingredient performance.

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Purified Water
Neutral

Purified water is used as a solvent and carrier for active ingredients in liquid formulations. It is essential for dissolving and distributing ingredients evenly. Its purity ensures that it does not introduce contaminants into the product.

Benefits

Serves as a clean and safe medium for delivering active ingredients.

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Sorbitol Solution
Neutral

Sorbitol solution is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener and humectant in pharmaceutical products. It is generally recognized as safe and provides a mild sweetness. Its role in maintaining moisture and texture is beneficial for liquid formulations.

Risks

Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort or laxative effects.

Benefits

Helps maintain product moisture and provides a mild sweetness without significant calories.

Benzyl Alcohol
Bad

Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.

Risks

May cause irritation in sensitive individuals if used in high concentrations.

Benefits

Helps maintain product integrity and prevent microbial growth.

See more about Benzyl Alcohol →
Flavor
Bad

The use of unspecified 'flavor' can include artificial components that may not be disclosed. This lack of transparency can be concerning for consumers seeking natural products. The potential inclusion of artificial flavors is a downside in terms of ingredient quality.

Risks

May contain artificial additives that some consumers prefer to avoid.

Benefits

Enhances the palatability of the product, making it more pleasant to consume.

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Saccharin Sodium
Bad

Saccharin sodium is an artificial sweetener that provides sweetness without calories. It has been controversial due to past studies linking it to health concerns, though it is currently deemed safe by regulatory agencies. Its artificial nature and potential health concerns make it less desirable than natural sweeteners.

Risks

May pose health concerns for sensitive individuals or when consumed in large quantities.

Benefits

Provides sweetness without adding calories, which can be beneficial for calorie-restricted diets.

See more about Saccharin Sodium →

Processing

Group 3 · Processed

Processed Foods

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