France in Focus

It turns out normal gaviscon does still exist! Last few times we have asked for it over the counter, at two different pharmacies, they have sold us a similar sized packed (24 sachets) of Gavisconell for nearly three times the price, despite us saying "Gaviscon".

I had a little discussion with the young lady in our local pharmacy (which changed hands last year, and all the prices instantly increased). I said I specifically wanted Gaviscon, and not Gavisconell. Just saved myself 7€ on one box - so make sure you get what you ask for? We assume they know longer stock the original, but I'll bet they're on special commission for pushing the "new, improved, three times the price" one.

Stay alert folks!

Gavisconell sounds a bit like the Gaviscon Dual action available in the UK ,costs more for little or no difference in fact I prefer the basic
A relative visiting France got a generic version,same ingredients but not branded and that was even cheaper

Yes, Pathca, there are generic versions of many things but you have to ask. Sometimes the pharmacist will ask if you're happy with a generic version of a medication.
This is particularly so in the case of stuff which is reimbursed - it saves the state a fortune if people accept generic !

I was asked if I wanted Neurofen or a generic in very rural France

Pathca wrote: ↑Fri Jan 12, 2024 12:53 pmGavisconell sounds a bit like the Gaviscon Dual action available in the UK ,costs more for little or no difference in fact I prefer the basic
A relative visiting France got a generic version,same ingredients but not branded and that was even cheaper

Not so sure - it just seems weaker - less for more:


Both appear to offer same formulation as Gaviscon Double Action - https://thisvsthat.io/gaviscon-advance- ... ble-action

Pathca wrote: ↑Fri Jan 12, 2024 1:06 pm I was asked if I wanted Neurofen or a generic in very rural France

That's good ! The French seem to think that Dolipran is a generic rather than a brand name

To be honest it was the packaging that looked familiar
I buy big bottles of the supermarket own label products but like the sachets for traveling

Having tried both now, and not seeing any difference in composition on the box, I can say the more expensive one doesn't seem to work any better than the cheap one. In fact, the price of Gavisconell is enough to give you heartburn!

Bit late now, but I bought some 'Phytosun aroms' on Amazon.fr a while ago. Very similar to Gaviscon, chewable etc., but they don't seem to be available now. 9€ for 20, not sure how that compares with the Gaviscon I bought in the UK last year.

There's these 'Aboca NeoBianacid 70 comprimés' and similar on Amazon.fr.