USES: This medication is used to treat the symptoms of too much stomach acid such as stomach upset, heartburn, and acid indigestion. Aluminum hydroxide is an antacid that works quickly to lower the acid in the stomach. Liquid antacids usually work faster/better than tablets or capsules.This medication works only on existing acid in the stomach. It does not prevent acid production. It may be used alone or with other medications that lower acid production (e.g., H2 blockers such as cimetidine/ranitidine and proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole).OTHER This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.Aluminum hydroxide is also used to lower phosphate levels in certain kidney conditions (usually in capsule form).
HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth between meals and at bedtime. Follow all the directions on the product package or use as directed by your doctor. If you are uncertain about any of this information, consult your doctor or pharmacist.Shake the bottle well before each dose. Refrigerating the suspension may improve the flavor. Do not freeze. This medication works best if taken without other fluids. You can mix your dose with a little water if needed.This product contains aluminum, which may react with other medications (e.g., digoxin, iron, tetracycline antibiotics, quinolone antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin), preventing them from being fully absorbed by your body. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about how to schedule your medications to prevent this problem.If your acid problems persist or worsen after you have used this product for 1 week, or if you think you have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention. If you are using this medication regularly on a daily basis for more than 2 weeks, you may have a medical problem that needs different treatment. Ask your doctor if this is the right medication for you.
GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is a condition in which the acidified liquid
contents of the stomach backs up into the esophagus. The symptoms of uncomplicated GERD are heartburn,
regurgitation, and nausea. Effective treatment is available for most patients with GERD.
A peptic ulcer is an ulcer in the lining of the stomach, duodenum, or esophagus. Ulcer formation is related to Helicobacter pylori bacteria in the stomach, use of anti-inflammatory medications, and cigarette smoking.
Dyspepsia (indigestion) is a functional disease in which the gastrointestinal organs, primarily the stomach and first part of the small intestine, function abnormally. It is a chronic disease in which the symptoms fluctuate infrequency and intensity. Symptoms of dyspepsia include upper abdominal pain, belching, nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating, early satiety, and abdominal distention (swelling). These symptoms are most often provoked by eating.
GERD is a condition in which the acidified liquid
content of the stomach up into the esophagus.
The causes of GERD include an abnormal lower
esophageal sphincter, hiatal hernia, abnormal esophageal contractions, and
slow emptying of the stomach.
GERD may damage the lining of the esophagus, thereby
causing inflammation (esophagitis), although usually it does not.
The symptoms of uncomplicated GERD are heartburn,
regurgitation, and nausea.
Complications of GERD include ulcers and strictures of
the esophagus, Barrett's esophagus,
cough and asthma, throat and laryngeal
inflammation, inflammation and infection of the lungs, and collection of fluid
in the sinuses and middle ear.
Barrett's esophagus is a pre-cancerous condition that
requires periodic endoscopic surveillance for the development of cancer.