Aluminum hydroxide is an antacid substance ; it is known for its ability to eliminate excessive gastric acidity . It is a less powerful and rapid compound than other antacids (such as sodium bicarbonate and calcium bicarbonate), but it is particularly effective in accelerating the healing of the peptic ulcer (it acts, in fact, by binding or absorbing pepsin).
Helps reduce the absorption of phosphorus in patients with kidney failure .
How does aluminum hydroxide work?
Aluminum hydroxide is used as an antacid: in contact with hydrochloric acid produced by the cells of the gastric mucosa of the stomach, it reacts by reducing the acidity of the content. Thus relieves the symptoms of ailments such as ulcer, gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux .
How is aluminum hydroxide administered?
It can be taken in the form of tablets for oral use (usually in combination with magnesium hydroxide), but also in the form of a gel (especially in the treatment of peptic ulcer).
Side effects of aluminum hydroxide
The use of the medicine, especially if prolonged, can lead to constipation (has astringent properties) and, if taken in high doses, it can lead to blockage (occlusion) of the intestine .
Since it blocks the absorption of phosphorus in the intestine, the use of aluminum hydroxide must be kept under control in case of hypophosphataemia (very low level of phosphate in the blood) or diets low in phosphorus.
In the presence of severe renal insufficiencies , it is recommended to take the product only under the supervision of the attending physician .
During aluminum hydroxide therapy, stool may appear whitish .
Contraindications and warnings on the use of aluminum hydroxide
Since the intake of aluminum hydroxide can lead to a reduction in the absorption of other gastrointestinal drugs, including important ones – including many antibiotics, various medicines active on the cardiovascular system and some drugs for the treatment of mental disorders – it is good allow no less than two hours to pass between taking other medicines and aluminum hydroxide. In any case, especially in the presence of contemporary therapies, it is always good to seek the advice of the doctor before taking this substance.
