People ask all the time, "What is effervescence?" They've heard that term associated with Alka-Seltzer products for years and years. Is it the bubbles? What makes the bubbles? And why do those effervescent bubbles work?

Yes, it's the bubbles! They're the result of a series of chemical reactions. To learn more about those chemical reactions, visit our science experiment pages.

In the meantime, know that there are benefits to taking Alka-Seltzer and Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold effervescent products. Effervescence refers to the unique and lively bubbling form that creates "The Alka-Seltzer Experience." After dropping the tablets into water, you can rest assured that relief is on the way. Simply put, the medicine dissolves fast and is ready to go to work. The time it would take for a solid form pain reliever or cold product to dissolve is eliminated.

Its effervescence is what makes Alka-Seltzer special. In the words of one of our consumers: "I think Alka-Seltzer is a different kind of medicine because you can see, hear, and know it will work.. With the active and lively bubbles, Alka-Seltzer speeds relief."