Magnesium hydroxide (active substance) is indicated as a laxative, for the treatment of occasional constipation , and as an antacid, for relief of heartburn , poor digestion, gastric hyperacidity and flatulence.
What Are The Main Contraindications?
- Patients who have already had an allergy to magnesium hydroxide or any component of the formula.
- Patients with kidney disease.
- Patients taking medications such as: sodium polystyrene sulfonate, ibuprofen, penicillamine, bisphosphonates, ketoconazole or tetracyclines.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
- Children under 2 years of age.
- Patients with persistent abdominal pain.
How should I use Magnesium Hydroxide (Magnesium Milk)
Before using this medicine you must shake the bottle well so that the suspension is mixed properly, being able to dilute (to mix) or not in water, in the amounts recommended as follows:
To reduce the acidity of the stomach:
- Child 2 to 11 years: 1 teaspoon (5 mL) as needed. The maximum daily dose is 6 teaspoons (30 mL) every 24 hours.
- Adults and children 12 years: 1 teaspoon (5 mL) to 1 tablespoon (15 mL) as needed. The maximum daily dose is 3 tablespoons (45 ml) every 24 hours.
As a laxative:
- Children 2 to 5 years: 1 teaspoon (5 mL) to 1 tablespoon (15 mL) – once a day.
Among the most common uses are:
- Vitamins and food supplements
- Food substitutes and other beverages
- Pills, chewing gums and gummy candy
- Drinks for athletes
- Potato-based snacks
- Pharmaceutical industry
- Sewage treatment
What special precautions should I follow?;Before taking the aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide antacids:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide antacids or other medications.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially aspirin, cinoxacin (Cinobac), ciprofloxacin (Cipro), digoxin (Lanoxin), diazepam (Valium), enoxacin (Penetrex), ferrous sulfate (iron), fluconazole (Diflucan), indomethacin, isoniazid (INH), itraconazole (Sporanox), ketoconazole (Nizoral), levofloxacin (Levaquin), lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), nalidáxico acid (NegGram), norfloxacin (Noroxin), ofloxacin (Floxin), sparfloxacin ( Zagam), tetracycline (Achromycin, Sumycin) and vitamins. If your doctor has told you to take antacids while taking these medications, do not do so within 2 hours of taking the antacid.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, have plans to get pregnant, or if you are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, call your doctor immediately.
Side Effects Of Magnesium Hydroxide
Although the side effects of magnesium hydroxide do not usually occur very commonly.It is important to contact the doctor if you observe the appearance of some of the following symptoms, as well as if these do not disappear.
- Retortijones.
- Stomach ache.
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea.
Magnesium Hydroxide is an inorganic compound commonly used as an antacid or laxative. Here’s a simple tabular guide to understand how it works:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Mg(OH)₂ |
| Physical Form | White, odorless powder |
| Primary Use | Antacid, Laxative |
| Mechanism as Antacid | Neutralizes stomach acid by reacting with hydrochloric acid (HCl) to form magnesium chloride (MgCl₂) and water (H₂O). |
| Mechanism as Laxative | Draws water into the intestines, increasing water content in stools, which stimulates bowel movement. |
| Onset of Action | As antacid: Works within minutes. As laxative: May take 30 minutes to 6 hours. |
| Dosage Forms | Chewable tablets, capsules, liquid suspension. |
| Common Side Effects | Diarrhea (when used as a laxative), stomach cramps. Rarely causes hypermagnesemia (excess magnesium in the blood) when used in high doses. |
| Interactions | Can interact with certain medications (e.g., antibiotics, bisphosphonates) by reducing their absorption. |
| Precautions | Should be used cautiously in patients with kidney problems. Not recommended for long-term use. |
This guide provides a general overview. For specific medical advice, dosage, and treatment plans, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional.
Conclusion
Magnesium hydroxide is a versatile compound with a range of applications, from alleviating symptoms of heartburn to serving as a fire retardant. As an antacid, it works by neutralizing excess stomach acid, while its laxative properties help relieve constipation. Additionally, it finds use in skincare and water treatment. However, it is crucial to use magnesium hydroxide responsibly and under professional guidance. So the next time you come across magnesium hydroxide, you’ll have a better understanding of how it works and its various use
