The Web Health

Magnesium hydroxide

Generic Name: Magnesium hydroxide [mag-NEE-see-um-hye-DROCK-side].
The Brand Names are: Dulcolax Liquid, Milk of Magnesia Pedia-Lax Chewable, Phillips Milk of Magnesia, Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia.
Dosage Forms: Oral concentrate (24%), oral suspension (8%), oral tablet (400 mg), chewable.
Drug Classes: Antacids, laxatives.

What exactly is Magnesium hydroxide?

Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral. Magnesium hydroxide lowers stomach acid and also increases the amount of water in the intestines, which can trigger bowel movements. Magnesium hydroxide is utilized as a laxative in order to alleviate occasional constipation. Magnesium hydroxide is also employed as an antacid in order to ease the symptoms of stomach acid, indigestion, and heartburn. Magnesium hydroxide can be utilized for other purposes that are not mentioned in this guide.

Adverse effects of Magnesium hydroxide.

Contact a medical professional immediately. If you are experiencing symptoms that indicate an allergic reaction, such as hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of your lips, face, or tongue. Magnesium hydroxide could cause serious adverse side effects. Stop taking magnesium hydroxide and contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

  • Severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
  • There is no stool movement after taking the medication as a laxative.
  • Bleeding in the rectal area.
  • The symptoms are getting worse.

Common adverse reactions to magnesium hydroxide could be:

  • Diarrhea.
  • A diminished perception of taste.

This is not an exhaustive list of all the adverse effects. Other side effects could be present. Consult your physician to seek medical advice on adverse effects. You can report any adverse reactions to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Do not take magnesium hydroxide without a doctor's guidance if you experience nausea, stomach pain, or vomiting.

Before you take this drug

Do not take magnesium hydroxide without a doctor's guidance if you experience nausea, stomach pain, or vomiting.

Speak with a pharmacist or doctor about whether magnesium hydroxide is suitable to use in the following situations:

  • If you suffer from kidney disease.
  • If you're following an eating plan that is low in magnesium.
  • There has been a sudden change in the way you eat that has been going on for more than two weeks.

Consult a physician before taking this medication if you are breastfeeding or pregnant.

How to take Magnesium hydroxide?

Follow the instructions on the label exactly or as directed by your doctor. Take care when measuring liquid medicines. Make use of the syringe for dosing or use a dosage-metering device (not the kitchen spoon). It is possible to shake your oral suspension prior to every use. It is important to chew the tablet before taking it.Drink this medicine in a full glass (8 ounces) of water. When used as an aid to laxation, magnesium hydroxide is expected to cause the bowel to move within 30 minutes to six hours. Consult your doctor to discuss your medical condition if the one you're treating with magnesium hydroxide fails to improve or gets worse when you use this medication. Do not take magnesium hydroxide for longer than 7 days unless you have medical assistance. Keep at room temperature, free of heat and moisture.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Because magnesium hydroxide is only employed when required and is not always on a prescribed schedule, Do not miss any doses when it's time to take the next dose. Don't take two doses at once.

What happens if I overdose?

Get medical attention in an emergency or contact the Poison Help line toll-free at 1-800-222-1222. The signs of an overdose could include extreme diarrhea, muscle weakening, the feeling of having your breath shorten, and a lack of or no urine.

What should be avoided?

Follow your doctor's advice regarding any restrictions on your food, drink, or activities.

Interaction with other drugs

Other medications can affect magnesium hydroxide. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies. Discuss with your doctor all the medications you currently use as well as any medications you are about to start or stop taking.