GENERIC NAME: ALUMINUM W/MAGNESIUM HYDROXIDE - ORAL (uh-LEW-mih-num WITH mag-NEE-zee-um hi-DROX-ide)
BRAND NAME(S): Di-Gel, Gaviscon, Gelusil, Maalox, Mylanta, Wingel
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This is an antacid that works in the stomach to neutralize and reduce acid. Antacids are used to treat an upset stomach caused by heartburn, acid indigestion, or sour stomach; to treat peptic ulcer, hiatal hernia or other conditions caused by an excess of stomach acid; and to prevent ulcers or bleeding from ulcers.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication as prescribed. Taking too much of an antacid can reverse the effects and more acid will be secreted. In certain conditions, however, it may be necessary to take the antacid as frequently as every 1 to 2 hours. To be effective, chewable tablets must be chewed thoroughly before swallowing followed by a full glass of water. Shake liquid forms well before pouring each dose. Do not take any other medication within 1 to 2 hours of taking an antacid. Since antacids coat the stomach, they can prevent other drugs from being absorbed properly if taken at the same time.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication can cause nausea, loss of appetite, constipation or diarrhea, weakness, or headache. If these symptoms persist or become severe, notify your doctor. Notify your doctor if you notice black, tarry stools while taking this medication. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: kidney problems.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you may use, especially of: tetracycline, ferrous sulfate (iron), drugs used for arthritis (e.g., aspirin, indomethacin), digoxin, isoniazid, pseudoephedrine, diazepam, methenamine, ketoconazole. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD, Heartburn) - Learn about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD, acid reflux, heartburn) symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, and nausea. Causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention information is also included.
- Hiatal Hernia - Learn what a hiatal hernia is, causes, symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, and regurgitation. Read about the relationship to GERD, how it is diagnosed.
- Peptic Ulcer - Learn about peptic ulcers, a hole in the gut lining of the stomach, duodenum, or esophagus.
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