My Baby Ate Tums or Rolaids | Illinois Poison Center

This information applies to children who have unintentionally swallowed a small amount of Tums or Rolaids. If the child swallowed more than one mouthful, is having symptoms, or if you are not positive of the exact substance or amount swallowed, call your local Poison Center immediately 1-800-222-1222 to speak to a nurse, pharmacist or physician for recommendations specific to your situation.  The call is free and confidential.

Toxicity Level: Minimally toxic in small amounts, such as a handful or less of antacid tablets

Also Known As: Tums, Rolaids, or generic/store brand chewable antacid tablet that contains calcium carbonate only.  Note: Pepto Bismol chewables contain extra ingredients—if Pepto Bismol has been swallowed please call 1-800-222-1222.

What It Is: Calcium carbonate tablets neutralize stomach acid to relieve mild heartburn or indigestion.  These tablets often come in sweet, fruit flavors.

Possible Symptoms of Overdose/Poisoning:  Constipation is possible if enough is ingested, but usually no symptoms are seen.

What You Should Do: If your child is not having symptoms, give a few sips of water.  If your child develops any symptoms, call 1-800-222-1222.

NOTE:  If your child has gotten this substance in their eyes, please view our Eye Exposure information.

About IPC

The Illinois Poison Center is a non-profit health service that provides the people of Illinois with comprehensive and trusted information and treatment advice on potentially harmful substances via a free, confidential 24-hour helpline, 1–800–222–1222. The helpline is staffed by specially trained medical experts, including physicians, nurses and pharmacists.

The Illinois Poison Center is dedicated to reducing the incidence and injury of poisoning in our communities through immediate expert telephone treatment recommendations, innovative public and healthcare professional education, and focused research.

The IPC serves as the state’s leading source of advanced toxicology training and consultation for healthcare professionals. Working closely with colleges and universities in Illinois, the IPC provides curriculum for nursing, pharmacy and medical students to further their knowledge of toxicology.

The IPC engages volunteers within Illinois communities to help provide the general public with outreach education on poison prevention information on potentially harmful substances. The IPC also partners with public health agencies, such as the CDC, to monitor related hazardous threats.

Click here for more details.  Don't forget to check out IPC's unique "My Child Ate..." resource library.