GENERIC NAME: MAGNESIUM HYDROXIDE - ORAL (mag-NEE-zee-um hi-DROX-ide)
BRAND NAME(S): Phillips' Milk of Magnesia
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used to treat occasional episodes of constipation. It acts to produce a bowel movement within 6 hours of taking a dose. This medication is also used for upset stomach caused by heartburn, acid indigestion or sour stomach; for peptic ulcer, hiatal hernia or other conditions caused by excess stomach acid; and to prevent ulcers or bleeding from ulcers.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication as prescribed. Use only temporarily to relieve constipation. When regularity returns, stop using the medication. Prolonged or continued use may result in laxative dependence. 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 this medication. Since magnesium hydroxide coats the stomach, it can prevent other drugs from being absorbed properly if taken at the same time.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause diarrhea. If diarrhea persists or worsens, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if the following effects occur: black/tarry stools or rectal bleeding. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Do not take magnesium hydroxide before consulting your doctor if you have the following conditions: kidney disease, stomach/abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting. Do not give this medication to a child under six years of age without first consulting a doctor. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before using this medication. It is not known if magnesium hydroxide is excreted into breast milk. Though there have been no reports (to date) of harm to nursing infants, consult your doctor before using this medicine.
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.
- Constipation - Read details about constipation and the different treatments available for constipation including laxatives, dietary fiber, enemas, suppositories, drugs, and surgery.
- 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.
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