aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, simethicone antacids

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

Side effects of aluminum and magnesium antacid include the following:

• Chalky taste
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhea

• 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.

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.

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.

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).