Bayer’s Consumer Health business launches global brand Alka-Seltzer® in India as the country’s first antacid with probiotic support
Bayer’s Consumer Health division today announced the launch of Alka-Seltzer® in India, marking its entry into the fast-growing over-the-counter (OTC) digestive health category. The product is being introduced in a convenient effervescent powder sachet format to address frequent acidity, gas and indigestion caused by lifestyle factors such as irregular eating habits and stress. Alka-Seltzer® is India’s first antacid in the AYUSH category with probiotic support, designed not only to provide relief from digestive discomfort but also to support gut health.
Sandeep Verma, Head of South Asia, Bayer’s Consumer Health Division, said, “The antacid category in India has remained largely unchanged for decades, even as consumer lifestyles and expectations have evolved significantly. With Alka-Seltzer®, we are looking to redefine this space by introducing India’s first antacid with probiotics, designed to deliver both fast-acting relief and support for long-term digestive health. This launch reflects our ongoing commitment to bringing a more holistic, science-led innovation into the market. Importantly this is not simply the adaptation of a global product. It has been developed using deep local insights and is manufactured locally, making it a 100% ‘Made in India’ offering.”
Digestive discomfort is common among urban consumers in India, with nearly 7 out of 10 report experiencing digestive issues weekly or even daily. Acidity (37%), gas (33%) and indigestion (20%) are among the most frequently reported concerns, often disrupting daily routines and productivity. Lifestyle factors such as irregular meals, stress and sedentary routines are key drivers.
Alka-Seltzer® is an Ayurvedic effervescent powder available in lemon flavour and packaged in convenient single-use sachets. The effervescent format is designed to help neutralise excess stomach acid and deliver fast relief from acidity, gas and indigestion. The formulation also contains Lactobacillus derived from curd extract to support gut health. Since acidity can disrupt good bacteria in the gut, the formulation has been developed to combine digestive relief with probiotic support.
The product will be available across e-pharmacies, quick-commerce platforms and retail outlets in India.
The launch marks Bayer’s expansion into digestive health through its Consumer Health Division in India, reinforcing its focus on enabling science-led self-care solutions for everyday health needs.
