Brand Name: Mylanta, Mylanta Maximum Strength, Mylanta Ultimate Strength, Maalox, Maalox Advanced, Gelusil
Generic Name: aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, simethicone antacids
Drug Class: Antacids
What is aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide? What is it used for?
Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide act as antacids by neutralizing stomach acid which results in an increasing pH in the stomach. Simethicone is an anti-gas medication that works by lowering the surface tension of gas bubbles, which gives relief from gas.
What brand names are available for aluminum hydroxide, and magnesium hydroxide?
Mylanta, Mylanta Maximum Strength, Mylanta Ultimate Strength, Maalox, Maalox Advanced, Gelusil
Is aluminum hydroxide, or magnesium hydroxide available as a generic drug?
Yes
Do I need a prescription for aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide?
No
What are the side effects of aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide?
Side effects of aluminum and magnesium antacid include the following:
- Chalky taste
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Diarrhea
What is the dosage for aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide?
- Adults and children of 12 years and older: Take 2 to 4 teaspoons (10-20 ml) or 2 to 4 tablets by mouth every 4 to 6 hours one before or 3 hours after a meal. Do not take more than 12 tablets a day.
- Children under 12 years of age: Consult a doctor.
Which drugs or supplements interact with aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide?
Aluminum and magnesium antacids should be used with caution with medications like atazanavir (Reyataz), ciprofloxacin (Cipro, Cipro XR, Proquin XR), dapsone, dasatinib (Sprycel), and tetracycline because antacids can slow down the absorption of these medications.
Is aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
There are no adequate studies done on antacids to determine safe and effective use in pregnant women.
It is not known whether antacids enter breast milk; therefore, it is best to be cautious before using it in nursing mothers.

QUESTION
GERD is the back up of stomach acid into the esophagus. See AnswerWhat else should I know about aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide?
Aluminum/magnesium antacids are available as an oral chewable tablet, liquid, or suspension.
- Liquid
- Mylanta and Maalox contain 200 mg aluminum hydroxide, 200 mg magnesium hydroxide, and 20 mg simethicone per 5 ml.
- Mylanta Maximum Strength and Maalox Advanced contain 400 mg aluminum hydroxide, 400 mg magnesium hydroxide, and 40 mg simethicone per 5 ml.
- Mylanta Ultimate Strength contains aluminum hydroxide 500 mg and magnesium hydroxide 500 mg per 5 ml.
- Mylanta is available in 12-ounce liquid bottles. Maalox is available in 5, 12, and 26-ounce bottles.
- Chewable Tablet
- 200 mg aluminum hydroxide, 200 mg magnesium hydroxide, 25 mg simethicone
- Suspension
- 225 mg aluminum hydroxide, 200 mg magnesium hydroxide, and 25 mg simethicone per 5 ml.
Aluminum and magnesium antacids should be stored at room temperatures 20 C to 25 C (68 F to 77 F).
Summary
aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, simethicone antacids (Mylanta, Mylanta Maximum Strength, Mylanta Ultimate Strength, Maalox, Maalox Advanced, Gelusil) are over-the-counter (OTC) medications that provide relief from gas and bloating. Side effects, drug interactions, dosing, and pregnancy safety information should be reviewed prior to taking this product.
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Heartburn
Heartburn is a burning sensation experienced from acid reflux (GERD). Symptoms of heartburn include chest pain, burning in the throat, difficulty swallowing, the feeling of food sticking in the throat, and a burning feeling in the chest. Causes of heartburn include dietary habits, lifestyle habits, and medical causes. Treatments for heartburn include lifestyle changes, OTC medication,prescription medication, and surgery.
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GERD (Acid Reflux, Heartburn)
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Peptic Ulcer (Stomach Ulcer)
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Bad Breath (Halitosis)
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Treatment & Diagnosis
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Prevention & Wellness

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.
MedscapeReference.com. Maalox, Mylanta.