What is milk of magnesia. How does it work for constipation and heartburn. What are the proper dosages for adults and children. Are there any potential side effects or risks to be aware of.

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

Milk of magnesia, also known by its chemical name magnesium hydroxide, is a widely available over-the-counter medication used primarily to treat constipation and provide relief from indigestion and heartburn. This versatile remedy works by drawing water into the bowels, which helps soften stool and makes it easier to pass. As an antacid, it can also neutralize stomach acid to alleviate discomfort from acid reflux and indigestion.

While most commonly found in liquid form, milk of magnesia is also available as chewable tablets. The liquid version comes in regular strength and concentrated formulations, with the latter not recommended for children under 12 years old without medical supervision.

The Science Behind Milk of Magnesia’s Effectiveness

How does milk of magnesia actually work to relieve constipation? The active ingredient, magnesium hydroxide, is classified as a saline laxative. When ingested, it draws water into the intestines through osmosis. This increased water content softens the stool and stimulates bowel movements, typically producing results within 30 minutes to 6 hours after taking the medication.

For heartburn and indigestion relief, milk of magnesia acts as an antacid by neutralizing stomach acid. The magnesium hydroxide reacts with hydrochloric acid in the stomach to form magnesium chloride and water, effectively raising the pH and reducing the burning sensation associated with acid reflux.

Is milk of magnesia safe for long-term use?

While generally safe for occasional use, milk of magnesia is not recommended for long-term or frequent consumption without medical supervision. Overuse can lead to electrolyte imbalances, particularly in magnesium levels. If you find yourself needing laxatives regularly, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to address the underlying causes of chronic constipation.

Proper Dosage and Administration of Milk of Magnesia

Using milk of magnesia correctly is crucial for its effectiveness and safety. The dosage varies depending on the formulation (regular or concentrated) and the age of the user. Here are the general guidelines for using milk of magnesia as a laxative:

• Adults: 30-60 ml of regular strength or 15-30 ml of concentrated liquid
• Children 6-11 years old: 15-30 ml of regular strength (consult a doctor for concentrated version)
• Children under 6: Use only under medical supervision

When taking milk of magnesia, it’s important to drink a full glass (8 ounces) of water with each dose. For best results, take the medication at bedtime. Always use the provided measuring cup or spoon for accurate dosing.

Can milk of magnesia be taken with other medications?

Milk of magnesia can interact with certain medications, potentially affecting their absorption or effectiveness. It’s advisable to take milk of magnesia at least 2 hours before or after other medications. If you’re on any prescription drugs, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before using milk of magnesia to ensure there are no contraindications.

Beyond Digestive Health: Alternative Uses for Milk of Magnesia

While primarily known for its digestive benefits, milk of magnesia has been touted for other uses, though scientific evidence supporting these applications is limited. Some people claim it can help with:

Sunburn Relief

Anecdotal reports suggest that applying a thin layer of milk of magnesia to sunburned skin may help soothe pain and reduce inflammation. However, there’s no solid scientific evidence to support this use. For sunburn relief, it’s generally safer to stick with proven remedies like aloe vera or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory creams.

Acne Treatment

The potential use of milk of magnesia for acne stems from a single study conducted in 1975. The research suggested that a combination of topical milk of magnesia, oral tetracycline, and regular face washing with a non-fat soap could help clear acne pustules and reduce inflammation. However, no further studies have corroborated these findings, and modern dermatology offers many more evidence-based treatments for acne.

If you’re considering using milk of magnesia for purposes other than digestive relief, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional first to discuss more appropriate and effective treatment options.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While milk of magnesia is generally considered safe when used as directed, it can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects may include:

• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting

More serious side effects, though rare, can occur, especially with overuse or in people with certain medical conditions. These may include:

• Electrolyte imbalances
• Magnesium toxicity
• Kidney problems

Who should avoid using milk of magnesia?

Certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid using milk of magnesia altogether. These include:

• People with kidney disease
• Those on a magnesium-restricted diet
• Individuals with severe abdominal pain or symptoms of appendicitis
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (consult a doctor first)

If you experience severe side effects or prolonged constipation despite using milk of magnesia, seek medical attention promptly.

Alternatives to Milk of Magnesia for Digestive Health

While milk of magnesia can be effective for occasional constipation and heartburn, it’s not the only option available. Consider these alternatives:

For Constipation:

• Fiber supplements (e.g., psyllium husk)
• Stool softeners
• Osmotic laxatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol)
• Stimulant laxatives (for short-term use only)

For Heartburn and Indigestion:

• Calcium carbonate antacids
• H2 blockers (e.g., famotidine)
• Proton pump inhibitors (for frequent heartburn)

Remember that lifestyle changes, such as increasing dietary fiber, staying hydrated, and regular exercise, can also significantly improve digestive health and reduce the need for laxatives or antacids.

When to Seek Medical Advice for Digestive Issues

While occasional use of milk of magnesia for constipation or heartburn is generally safe, persistent digestive issues warrant medical attention. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Chronic constipation lasting more than two weeks
• Blood in stool
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe abdominal pain
• Frequent heartburn that doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments

These symptoms could indicate underlying conditions that require proper diagnosis and treatment beyond what milk of magnesia can provide.

Can lifestyle changes reduce the need for laxatives like milk of magnesia?

Absolutely. Many cases of occasional constipation can be prevented or alleviated through simple lifestyle modifications. Consider incorporating these habits:

• Increase fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
• Engage in regular physical activity
• Establish a consistent bathroom routine
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or meditation

By adopting these healthy habits, you may find that your reliance on laxatives decreases over time. However, always consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or medication regimen, especially if you have ongoing digestive issues.

The Role of Milk of Magnesia in Modern Medicine

Despite the availability of newer medications, milk of magnesia remains a popular choice for many due to its effectiveness, relative safety, and affordability. Its dual action as both a laxative and an antacid makes it a versatile option for common digestive complaints.

However, it’s important to recognize that milk of magnesia is not a cure-all for digestive problems. While it can provide relief for occasional constipation and heartburn, it should not be relied upon as a long-term solution. Chronic digestive issues often require a more comprehensive approach, including dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and potentially prescription medications.

How does milk of magnesia compare to newer laxatives and antacids?

Milk of magnesia holds its own against newer products in terms of effectiveness for occasional use. However, newer medications may offer advantages in terms of taste, convenience, or specific formulations for different needs. For instance:

• Osmotic laxatives like polyethylene glycol are often preferred for chronic constipation due to their gentler action and lower risk of electrolyte imbalances.
• Proton pump inhibitors provide more long-lasting relief for frequent heartburn compared to traditional antacids.
• Combination products that contain both laxative and stool softener ingredients may offer more comprehensive relief for some individuals.

The choice between milk of magnesia and other products often comes down to personal preference, specific symptoms, and advice from healthcare providers.

In conclusion, milk of magnesia remains a valuable tool in the management of occasional constipation and heartburn. Its long history of use, combined with its effectiveness and safety profile when used as directed, ensures its continued relevance in modern medicine. However, as with any medication, it’s crucial to use milk of magnesia responsibly and to seek professional medical advice for persistent or severe digestive issues. By understanding its benefits, limitations, and proper usage, individuals can make informed decisions about incorporating milk of magnesia into their digestive health regimen.

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]

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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.