What is milk of magnesia. How does milk of magnesia work for constipation. What are the recommended dosages of milk of magnesia for different age groups. Can milk of magnesia be used for sunburn and acne. What are the potential side effects of milk of magnesia.

Understanding Milk of Magnesia: A Versatile Over-the-Counter Medication

Milk of magnesia, also known by its chemical name magnesium hydroxide, is a widely used over-the-counter (OTC) medication primarily employed for treating constipation and providing relief from indigestion and heartburn. Its versatility and accessibility make it a common household remedy for various digestive issues.

This multifaceted medication functions in two primary ways:

• As a saline laxative, drawing moisture into the bowels to soften stool and facilitate easier passage
• As an antacid, neutralizing excess stomach acid to alleviate heartburn and indigestion

While milk of magnesia is readily available without a prescription, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional if you experience frequent constipation or before administering it to children under 6 years of age.

The Science Behind Milk of Magnesia’s Effectiveness

Milk of magnesia’s efficacy in treating constipation stems from its ability to draw water into the intestines. This increased moisture content softens the stool, making it easier to pass. As a result, most individuals experience a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours after taking the medication.

When used as an antacid, milk of magnesia works by neutralizing excess stomach acid. This action provides quick relief from the burning sensation associated with heartburn and helps alleviate indigestion symptoms.

How quickly does milk of magnesia work for constipation?

The onset of action for milk of magnesia can vary from person to person. Typically, users can expect to experience a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours after taking the medication. This relatively rapid action makes it an effective solution for occasional constipation relief.

Exploring the Various Forms and Dosages of Milk of Magnesia

Milk of magnesia is available in several forms to cater to different preferences and needs:

• Liquid formulation (regular strength and concentrated)
• Chewable tablets

The liquid form is the most common and can be mixed with water or milk for easier consumption. It’s essential to shake the bottle well before measuring the dose to ensure proper distribution of the active ingredients.

What are the recommended dosages for milk of magnesia?

Dosage recommendations vary based on the user’s age and the specific formulation being used. Here are the general guidelines for the original liquid version when used for constipation:

• Adults: 30-60 ml
• Children (6-11 years): 15-30 ml
• Children under 6 years: Consult a doctor before use

For the concentrated liquid version:

• Adults: 15-30 ml
• Children under 12 years: Consult a doctor before use

It’s crucial to follow the instructions on the packaging or as directed by a healthcare professional. Always use the provided measuring cup or spoon for accurate dosing, and drink a full glass (8 ounces) of water with each dose.

Beyond Digestive Relief: Alternative Uses for Milk of Magnesia

While primarily known for its digestive applications, some individuals have explored using milk of magnesia for other purposes, such as sunburn relief and acne treatment. However, it’s important to note that scientific evidence supporting these alternative uses is limited.

Can milk of magnesia be used for sunburn relief?

Some people claim that applying a thin layer of milk of magnesia to sunburned skin can help alleviate pain and burning sensations. However, there is no empirical evidence or scientific studies to support this use. For sunburn relief, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional and consider using proven remedies like aloe vera.

Is milk of magnesia effective for treating acne?

The use of milk of magnesia for acne treatment is based on the belief that it can help break up surface oils on the skin. However, research on this application is extremely limited. A single study from 1975 suggested that combining milk of magnesia with oral tetracycline and regular face washing might help clear acne pustules and reduce inflammation. Nevertheless, no recent studies have confirmed these findings or explored the topical or oral use of milk of magnesia for acne treatment. It’s best to consult a dermatologist for evidence-based acne treatments.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions When Using Milk of Magnesia

While milk of magnesia is generally considered safe when used as directed, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects and take necessary precautions.

What are the common side effects of milk of magnesia?

Some individuals may experience the following side effects when using milk of magnesia:

• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Electrolyte imbalances (with prolonged use)

If you experience severe or persistent side effects, it’s important to discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Are there any precautions to consider when using milk of magnesia?

Take the following precautions when using milk of magnesia:

1. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or use for more than 7 consecutive days without consulting a doctor.
2. If you have kidney problems, consult your healthcare provider before using milk of magnesia, as it contains magnesium.
3. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult their doctor before using this medication.
4. Be aware of potential drug interactions with other medications you may be taking.
5. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice.

Comparing Milk of Magnesia to Other Laxatives and Antacids

While milk of magnesia is a popular choice for constipation relief and acid neutralization, it’s not the only option available. Understanding how it compares to other laxatives and antacids can help you make an informed decision about which product is best suited for your needs.

How does milk of magnesia compare to stimulant laxatives?

Milk of magnesia is an osmotic laxative, which works by drawing water into the intestines. Stimulant laxatives, on the other hand, work by increasing intestinal contractions. Here’s a comparison:

• Milk of magnesia: Generally gentler on the body, slower onset of action (30 minutes to 6 hours), less likely to cause dependence
• Stimulant laxatives: Faster onset of action (6-12 hours), may cause cramping, potential for dependence with long-term use

What are the differences between milk of magnesia and other antacids?

As an antacid, milk of magnesia neutralizes stomach acid. Here’s how it compares to other common antacids:

• Milk of magnesia: Long-lasting effect, may cause diarrhea as a side effect
• Calcium carbonate (e.g., Tums): Fast-acting, may cause constipation
• Aluminum hydroxide: Slower onset but longer-lasting effect, may cause constipation
• Sodium bicarbonate: Rapid relief, but short duration of action

The choice between these options depends on individual needs, frequency of use, and specific symptoms.

Tips for Maximizing the Effectiveness of Milk of Magnesia

To ensure you get the most benefit from milk of magnesia while minimizing potential side effects, consider the following tips:

How can you improve the taste of liquid milk of magnesia?

Some people find the taste of milk of magnesia unpleasant. To make it more palatable:

• Mix it with a small amount of water or milk
• Chill the mixture before drinking
• Follow it immediately with a preferred beverage to mask the aftertaste
• Consider flavored versions if available

What lifestyle changes can complement the use of milk of magnesia?

To enhance the effectiveness of milk of magnesia and promote overall digestive health:

• Increase your daily fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
• Engage in regular physical activity to promote bowel movements
• Establish a consistent bathroom routine
• Manage stress levels, as stress can impact digestive function

By incorporating these lifestyle changes alongside the appropriate use of milk of magnesia, you can potentially improve your digestive health and reduce your reliance on laxatives over time.

When to Seek Medical Advice Regarding Milk of Magnesia Use

While milk of magnesia is generally safe for occasional use, there are situations where it’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional:

When should you talk to a doctor about using milk of magnesia?

Seek medical advice in the following circumstances:

• If you experience constipation lasting more than a week
• If you need to use laxatives regularly
• Before giving milk of magnesia to children under 6 years old
• If you have kidney problems or are on a magnesium-restricted diet
• If you experience severe side effects such as persistent diarrhea, vomiting, or signs of an allergic reaction
• If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
• If you’re taking other medications that might interact with milk of magnesia

Remember, while milk of magnesia can be an effective short-term solution for constipation and heartburn, frequent or prolonged use may indicate an underlying health issue that requires professional medical attention.

What is milk of magnesia? Uses, types, and side effects

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• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
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Was this helpful?

Milk of magnesia is an over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for constipation. It works by drawing water into the bowel and softening stool, making it easier to pass. It can also soothe indigestion and heartburn.

This article explains what milk of magnesia is, how to use it, what conditions it can treat, common side effects, and more.

Milk of magnesia, also known as magnesium hydroxide, can act as an antacid or as a saline laxative.

This type of laxative works by drawing moisture into a person’s bowels to help loosen stool.

A person may purchase milk of magnesia over the counter (OTC) without a prescription, but they should talk with their doctor if they experience frequent bouts of constipation.

Parents and guardians should avoid giving milk of magnesia to children under 6 years old unless their doctor recommends its use.

People use milk of magnesia for:

• constipation, because when used as a laxative, milk of magnesia draws water into the bowel to help soften and remove stool
• indigestion and heartburn

The original form of milk of magnesia usually helps a person produce a bowel movement in 30 minutes to 6 hours.

In addition to constipation and acid relief, milk of magnesia may help with conditions such as sunburn and acne, though empirical evidence is significantly lacking.

Milk of magnesia for sunburn

Some people believe that applying a thin layer of milk of magnesia topically to sunburn will help ease the pain and burning sensation.

Though this may work for some people, no studies or empirical evidence exist to support its use on sunburn.

A person interested in sunburn relief should talk with their doctor. Other OTC products, such as aloe vera, may work better for a person.

Milk of magnesia for acne

Some people believe that milk of magnesia can help with treating acne. The belief stems from the medication’s potential ability to help break up surface oils.

The only research on its use for acne dates back to a 1975 study. In the study, a researcher noted that the use of milk of magnesia combined with orally taking 250 milligrams (mg) of tetracycline and washing two times daily with a nonfat soap helped clear up acne pustules and reduce inflammation.

No further studies have looked at the use of applying milk of magnesia topically or taking it orally for the treatment of acne. A person should talk with their doctor about alternative methods to treat acne.

Milk of magnesia is available to buy as either a tablet or a liquid. When using the tablet form, a person usually needs to chew the tablet before swallowing.

Milk of magnesia is available as a regular strength liquid or a concentrated liquid. People should not give the concentrated liquid to children under the age of 12.

People can buy different forms of milk of magnesia from drug stores or online.

People should not take more medication than their doctor or the packaging recommends.

Though dosing can vary, a person should avoid taking more than the recommended dose over the course of 24 hours.

To take liquid milk of magnesia, a person can mix it with milk or water. Shake the bottle well before measuring out a dose. The dosage varies depending on why the person is using the medication and their age.

The following sections describe the doses for milk of magnesia based on use and age.

Milk of magnesia for constipation

People who are old enough to take milk of magnesia should drink a full glass, or 8 ounces, of water with each dose of milk of magnesia. Use the 15-milliliter (ml) dosing cup or spoon provided for accuracy. It is best to take the medication at bedtime.

Using the original version of milk of magnesia for constipation, the dosage in milliliters varies depending on a person’s age:

• Adults can take 30–60 ml.
• Children ages 6–11 can take 15–30 ml.
• Ask a doctor before giving this medication to children under 6 years old.

For the concentrated version of milk of magnesia, the dosage is lower:

• Adults can take 15–30 ml.
• Ask a doctor before giving this medication to children under 12 years old.

There are also chewable tablets for children. Children should drink a full glass of liquid with each dose. The dosage varies depending on age:

• Children ages 6–12 can take 3–6 tablets per day.
• Children ages 2–6 can take 1–3 tablets per day.
• Ask a doctor before giving this medication to children under 2 years old.

People should not take milk of magnesia as a laxative for more than 7 days in a row. Anyone who is still in need of a laxative or has persistent pain in their stomach area should talk with a doctor.

Milk of magnesia usually relieves constipation within 6 hours of taking it. If a person does not have a bowel movement after using milk of magnesia, they should stop using it and talk with a doctor.

In those cases, an underlying condition may be the cause of constipation and may need additional treatment from a doctor.

Milk of magnesia for other digestive issues

Along with constipation relief, people can also use some versions of milk of magnesia to relieve heartburn and acid indigestion.

Adults should take 5–15 ml at a time with water and repeat up to four times per day as needed. They should not take more than 60 ml in any 24-hour period.

When using milk of magnesia as an antacid, it may also have a laxative effect. Do not use milk of magnesia as an antacid for more than 14 days in a row.

Speak with a doctor before using milk of magnesia to treat other digestive issues in children under age 12.

Most people who take milk of magnesia do not experience side effects.

The most common side effects of milk of magnesia are:

• diarrhea
• stomach cramps
• nausea
• vomiting
• skin flushing
• drowsiness

Milk of magnesia also carries the risk of more serious side effects. People who experience any of the following should stop using the medication and seek medical attention:

• rectal bleeding
• no bowel movement after taking it
• severe nausea or vomiting
• slow heartbeat
• lightheadedness

Serious side effects are more likely to occur if a person takes more milk of magnesia than recommended, or if they take it for an extended period.

People who are taking this medication need to make sure they drink plenty of water to prevent becoming dehydrated. If anyone experiences diarrhea after taking a dose of milk of magnesia, they should not use it again.

If someone overdoses on milk of magnesia, they should seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose may include:

• severe diarrhea
• muscle weakness
• mood change
• slow or irregular heartbeat
• little or no urination

Some people may be allergic to milk of magnesia. Signs of an allergic reaction that require medical attention include:

• hives
• difficulty breathing
• swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

People living with impaired kidney function should avoid milk of magnesia. The following people should also avoid taking the medication:

• people on a magnesium-restricted diet
• people with symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach pain
• people who experience sudden bowel changes that last longer than 14 days

Magnesium may be able to cross the placenta into the body of the fetus. However, doctors do not know if milk of magnesia is safe for use during pregnancy, as there is no data on this.

Small amounts of magnesium may also make its way into breast milk, but doctors do not know the safety of this either.

As such, the general advice is to avoid using milk of magnesia when pregnant or nursing or ask a doctor before use.

Milk of magnesia interferes with a wide range of medications, which means it affects how they work. These include prescription and OTC medications, as well as vitamins and supplements.

Because of the way it impacts the liquids in the gut, milk of magnesia can stop tablets from being absorbed properly.

As a result, a person should talk with their doctor before using milk of magnesia if they regularly take other medications, including OTC medications, vitamins, and prescription medications.

Milk of magnesia is a well-known and effective laxative for the short-term treatment of constipation.

People should not use milk of magnesia for more than 7 days at a time for constipation or 14 days at a time for other digestive issues.

Ongoing symptoms can be a sign of a more serious gut health condition, so if the problem persists, a person should contact their doctor.

Milk of magnesia works by drawing water into the bowel from the surrounding tissue. This means it can stop the body from absorbing a range of other medications, including prescription drugs, supplements, and vitamins.

Anyone who takes medication for a health condition should talk with a doctor before taking milk of magnesia.

What is milk of magnesia? Uses, types, and side effects

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Milk of magnesia is an over-the-counter (OTC) treatment for constipation. It works by drawing water into the bowel and softening stool, making it easier to pass. It can also soothe indigestion and heartburn.

This article explains what milk of magnesia is, how to use it, what conditions it can treat, common side effects, and more.

Milk of magnesia, also known as magnesium hydroxide, can act as an antacid or as a saline laxative.

This type of laxative works by drawing moisture into a person’s bowels to help loosen stool.

A person may purchase milk of magnesia over the counter (OTC) without a prescription, but they should talk with their doctor if they experience frequent bouts of constipation.

Parents and guardians should avoid giving milk of magnesia to children under 6 years old unless their doctor recommends its use.

People use milk of magnesia for:

• constipation, because when used as a laxative, milk of magnesia draws water into the bowel to help soften and remove stool
• indigestion and heartburn

The original form of milk of magnesia usually helps a person produce a bowel movement in 30 minutes to 6 hours.

In addition to constipation and acid relief, milk of magnesia may help with conditions such as sunburn and acne, though empirical evidence is significantly lacking.

Milk of magnesia for sunburn

Some people believe that applying a thin layer of milk of magnesia topically to sunburn will help ease the pain and burning sensation.

Though this may work for some people, no studies or empirical evidence exist to support its use on sunburn.

A person interested in sunburn relief should talk with their doctor. Other OTC products, such as aloe vera, may work better for a person.

Milk of magnesia for acne

Some people believe that milk of magnesia can help with treating acne. The belief stems from the medication’s potential ability to help break up surface oils.

The only research on its use for acne dates back to a 1975 study. In the study, a researcher noted that the use of milk of magnesia combined with orally taking 250 milligrams (mg) of tetracycline and washing two times daily with a nonfat soap helped clear up acne pustules and reduce inflammation.

No further studies have looked at the use of applying milk of magnesia topically or taking it orally for the treatment of acne. A person should talk with their doctor about alternative methods to treat acne.

Milk of magnesia is available to buy as either a tablet or a liquid. When using the tablet form, a person usually needs to chew the tablet before swallowing.

Milk of magnesia is available as a regular strength liquid or a concentrated liquid. People should not give the concentrated liquid to children under the age of 12.

People can buy different forms of milk of magnesia from drug stores or online.

People should not take more medication than their doctor or the packaging recommends.

Though dosing can vary, a person should avoid taking more than the recommended dose over the course of 24 hours.

To take liquid milk of magnesia, a person can mix it with milk or water. Shake the bottle well before measuring out a dose. The dosage varies depending on why the person is using the medication and their age.

The following sections describe the doses for milk of magnesia based on use and age.

Milk of magnesia for constipation

People who are old enough to take milk of magnesia should drink a full glass, or 8 ounces, of water with each dose of milk of magnesia. Use the 15-milliliter (ml) dosing cup or spoon provided for accuracy. It is best to take the medication at bedtime.

Using the original version of milk of magnesia for constipation, the dosage in milliliters varies depending on a person’s age:

• Adults can take 30–60 ml.
• Children ages 6–11 can take 15–30 ml.
• Ask a doctor before giving this medication to children under 6 years old.

For the concentrated version of milk of magnesia, the dosage is lower:

• Adults can take 15–30 ml.
• Ask a doctor before giving this medication to children under 12 years old.

There are also chewable tablets for children. Children should drink a full glass of liquid with each dose. The dosage varies depending on age:

• Children ages 6–12 can take 3–6 tablets per day.
• Children ages 2–6 can take 1–3 tablets per day.
• Ask a doctor before giving this medication to children under 2 years old.

People should not take milk of magnesia as a laxative for more than 7 days in a row. Anyone who is still in need of a laxative or has persistent pain in their stomach area should talk with a doctor.

Milk of magnesia usually relieves constipation within 6 hours of taking it. If a person does not have a bowel movement after using milk of magnesia, they should stop using it and talk with a doctor.

In those cases, an underlying condition may be the cause of constipation and may need additional treatment from a doctor.

Milk of magnesia for other digestive issues

Along with constipation relief, people can also use some versions of milk of magnesia to relieve heartburn and acid indigestion.

Adults should take 5–15 ml at a time with water and repeat up to four times per day as needed. They should not take more than 60 ml in any 24-hour period.

When using milk of magnesia as an antacid, it may also have a laxative effect. Do not use milk of magnesia as an antacid for more than 14 days in a row.

Speak with a doctor before using milk of magnesia to treat other digestive issues in children under age 12.

Most people who take milk of magnesia do not experience side effects.

The most common side effects of milk of magnesia are:

• diarrhea
• stomach cramps
• nausea
• vomiting
• skin flushing
• drowsiness

Milk of magnesia also carries the risk of more serious side effects. People who experience any of the following should stop using the medication and seek medical attention:

• rectal bleeding
• no bowel movement after taking it
• severe nausea or vomiting
• slow heartbeat
• lightheadedness

Serious side effects are more likely to occur if a person takes more milk of magnesia than recommended, or if they take it for an extended period.

People who are taking this medication need to make sure they drink plenty of water to prevent becoming dehydrated. If anyone experiences diarrhea after taking a dose of milk of magnesia, they should not use it again.

If someone overdoses on milk of magnesia, they should seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose may include:

• severe diarrhea
• muscle weakness
• mood change
• slow or irregular heartbeat
• little or no urination

Some people may be allergic to milk of magnesia. Signs of an allergic reaction that require medical attention include:

• hives
• difficulty breathing
• swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat

People living with impaired kidney function should avoid milk of magnesia. The following people should also avoid taking the medication:

• people on a magnesium-restricted diet
• people with symptoms such as nausea, diarrhea, or stomach pain
• people who experience sudden bowel changes that last longer than 14 days

Magnesium may be able to cross the placenta into the body of the fetus. However, doctors do not know if milk of magnesia is safe for use during pregnancy, as there is no data on this.

Small amounts of magnesium may also make its way into breast milk, but doctors do not know the safety of this either.

As such, the general advice is to avoid using milk of magnesia when pregnant or nursing or ask a doctor before use.

Milk of magnesia interferes with a wide range of medications, which means it affects how they work. These include prescription and OTC medications, as well as vitamins and supplements.

Because of the way it impacts the liquids in the gut, milk of magnesia can stop tablets from being absorbed properly.

As a result, a person should talk with their doctor before using milk of magnesia if they regularly take other medications, including OTC medications, vitamins, and prescription medications.

Milk of magnesia is a well-known and effective laxative for the short-term treatment of constipation.

People should not use milk of magnesia for more than 7 days at a time for constipation or 14 days at a time for other digestive issues.

Ongoing symptoms can be a sign of a more serious gut health condition, so if the problem persists, a person should contact their doctor.

Milk of magnesia works by drawing water into the bowel from the surrounding tissue. This means it can stop the body from absorbing a range of other medications, including prescription drugs, supplements, and vitamins.

Anyone who takes medication for a health condition should talk with a doctor before taking milk of magnesia.

uses, types, risks and interactions

27.11.2018 16:36 News

Milk of magnesia contains magnesium, which is a natural element. The body requires magnesium for many of its systems to function properly, especially muscles and nerves. Milk of magnesia is also known as magnesium hydroxide, which is its chemical name.

Milk of magnesia is used as a laxative to relieve constipation, indigestion and heartburn. Magnesia reduces the amount of acid in the stomach while increasing the amount of water in the intestines. Milk of magnesia usually causes an increase in intestinal motility after 30 minutes to 6 hours.

Milk of Magnesia is one of the most commonly used treatments for constipation. Constipation – stools less than three times a week. People suffering from constipation have the following symptoms:

• hard stools;
• bloating;
• abdominal discomfort;
• the need for excessive strain during bowel movements.

Milk of Magnesia – Forms

Magnesia can be purchased as a tablet or as a liquid. When using a tablet form, a person usually needs to chew the tablet before swallowing. Milk of Magnesia is available as a liquid.

Milk of Magnesia – dosage

People should not take large doses of the drug. To take liquid milk of magnesia, you need to mix it with milk or water. Shake the bottle before use. It is best to take the remedy at bedtime. When using Milk of Magnesia for constipation, the dosage depends on the person’s age:

• adults can take 30-60 ml;
• children aged 6 to 11 may take 15 to 30 ml.

There are also magnesium tablets for children. Children should drink a full glass of liquid with each dose. Dosage depends on age:

• children aged 6 to 13 may take 3-6 tablets per day;
• Children aged 2 to 6 years may take 1-3 tablets daily.

Do not take Milk of Magnesia as a laxative for more than 7 consecutive days. Milk of Magnesia usually relieves constipation within 6 hours of taking it. If a person does not experience an acceleration of intestinal motility after using magnesia, he should consult a doctor to find out the cause of constipation.

Milk of magnesia is also used to relieve heartburn and acid indigestion. Adults should take 5-15 ml at a time and repeat up to 4 times daily as needed. They should not take more than 60 ml in any 24 hour period.

When milk of magnesia is used as an antacid, it may also have a laxative effect. Do not use magnesium as an antacid for more than 14 days in a row. Talk to your doctor before using milk of magnesia to treat other digestive problems in children under 12.

Milk of Magnesia – side effects

Most people who take Milk of Magnesia do not experience side effects. The most common side effects of milk of magnesia are:

• intestinal cramps;
• chalk flavor;
• nausea;
• vomiting.

When should I see a doctor?

Milk of magnesia may cause more serious side effects. People should immediately stop using the product and seek medical attention if they experience any of the following symptoms:

• rectal bleeding;
• no increase in intestinal motility after taking it;
• severe nausea or vomiting;
• slow heartbeat;
• nonsense.

Serious side effects are more likely to occur if a person takes large doses of magnesium or if they take it for a long period of time.

Milk of Magnesia – Overdose

People who take Milk of Magnesia should drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration. If diarrhea occurs, repeated administration should be avoided. If you overdose on magnesium, you should seek emergency medical attention. Overdose symptoms:

• severe diarrhoea;
• muscle weakness;
• mood changes;
• slow or irregular heartbeat;
• no urination.

Some people may be allergic to magnesium. People with impaired kidney function should avoid magnesium milk. Women who are breastfeeding should avoid milk with magnesium, as magnesium can pass into breast milk.

Interaction

Milk of Magnesia interacts with a wide range of drugs, including vitamins and supplements. Examples of possible interactions include:

• tetracycline;
• digoxin;
• penicillamine;
• bisphosphonates;
• ketoconazole.

Milk of Magnesia draws water into the intestines from the surrounding tissue. This means that it can affect how other drugs work, including prescription drugs, supplements, and vitamins.

Khusainov Ruslan Khalilovich

Doctor of ultrasound diagnostics JSC “SZTsDM” (St. Petersburg)

Founder of the online publication Medical Insider , editor-in-chief and author of articles.

Contact email is [email protected]

Always consult your physician before using the tips and advice found on the Medical Insider website.

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All forms of release, dosages, registration certificates, drug manufacturers, drug characteristics

Description of the drug Milk of Magnesia (oral suspension, 415 mg/5 ml) based on the official instructions, approved by the manufacturer in 1998

Contents

• Active substance
• Pharmacological group
• Nosological classification (ICD-10)
• Composition and form of release
• pharmachologic effect
• pharmachologic effect
• Indications
• Contraindications
• Dosage and administration
• Side effects
• Storage conditions
• Best before date
• Reviews

Active ingredient

Magnesium hydroxide

Pharmacological group

Antacids

Laxatives

Nosological classification (ICD-10)

ICD-10 code list

Composition and formulation

1 tablet contains magnesium hydroxide 300 mg; per pack 24 pcs.

5 ml suspension for oral administration – 415 mg; in vials of 300 ml.

Pharmacological action

Pharmacological action –

antacid , laxative .

Neutralizes free hydrochloric acid in the stomach, reduces the peptic activity of gastric juice, accelerates the motility of the stomach and intestines (without secondary hypersecretion of hydrochloric acid and metabolic alkalosis).

Neutralizes free hydrochloric acid in the stomach, lowers the peptic activity of gastric juice, accelerates the motility of the stomach and intestines (without secondary hypersecretion of hydrochloric acid and metabolic alkalosis).

Indications

Increased acidity of gastric juice, gastralgia, dyspepsia, heartburn, acute duodenitis, peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum, flatulence, constipation.

Contraindications

Age (for suspension – up to 3 years; for tablets – up to 6 years).

Dosage and administration

Information for healthcare professionals only.