What is milk of magnesia. How does it work for constipation and heartburn. What are the recommended dosages for adults and children. Are there any potential side effects or precautions to consider. Can milk of magnesia be used for other conditions like sunburn or acne.

Understanding Milk of Magnesia: Composition and Mechanism of Action

Milk of magnesia, also known as magnesium hydroxide, is an over-the-counter (OTC) medication primarily used to treat constipation and provide relief from indigestion and heartburn. But what exactly is this versatile substance, and how does it work?

Milk of magnesia functions as both an antacid and a saline laxative. As a laxative, it operates by drawing moisture into the bowels, which helps to soften stool and facilitate its passage. This unique mechanism of action makes it an effective solution for those struggling with constipation.

How quickly does milk of magnesia work?

When used as a laxative, milk of magnesia typically produces a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours after ingestion. This relatively quick action makes it a popular choice for those seeking prompt relief from constipation.

Primary Uses of Milk of Magnesia in Healthcare

While milk of magnesia is widely known for its laxative properties, it has several other applications in healthcare. Let’s explore the primary uses of this versatile medication:

• Constipation relief
• Treatment of indigestion
• Alleviation of heartburn symptoms

Can milk of magnesia be used for other conditions?

Some people believe that milk of magnesia can be beneficial for conditions such as sunburn and acne. However, it’s important to note that scientific evidence supporting these uses is limited. While anecdotal reports suggest that applying a thin layer of milk of magnesia to sunburned skin may provide relief, no empirical studies have confirmed this effect. Similarly, its use in acne treatment lacks substantial scientific backing, with only a single study from 1975 suggesting potential benefits when combined with other treatments.

Available Forms and Proper Administration of Milk of Magnesia

Milk of magnesia comes in various forms to suit different preferences and needs. Understanding the available options and proper administration is crucial for effective and safe use.

What forms of milk of magnesia are available?

Milk of magnesia is typically available in two main forms:

1. Liquid formulation (regular strength and concentrated)
2. Chewable tablets

When using the liquid form, it’s essential to shake the bottle well before measuring the dose. The medication can be mixed with milk or water for easier consumption. For those who prefer a solid form, chewable tablets are available, which should be thoroughly chewed before swallowing.

Dosage Guidelines for Milk of Magnesia

Proper dosing of milk of magnesia is crucial for its effectiveness and safety. The recommended dosage varies depending on the user’s age and the specific condition being treated.

What is the recommended dosage for constipation relief?

For the original liquid version of milk of magnesia used to treat constipation, the following dosages are generally recommended:

• Adults: 30–60 ml
• Children ages 6–11: 15–30 ml
• Children under 6: Consult a doctor before use

For the concentrated liquid version:

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

It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and individuals should always follow the instructions provided on the product packaging or by their healthcare provider. Additionally, it’s recommended to drink a full glass (8 ounces) of water with each dose of milk of magnesia.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While milk of magnesia is generally considered safe when used as directed, it’s important 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 mild side effects when using milk of magnesia, including:

• Nausea
• Stomach cramps
• Diarrhea

In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur. It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or signs of an allergic reaction.

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

While milk of magnesia is available over the counter, it’s not suitable for everyone. Consider the following precautions:

• Consult a healthcare provider before giving milk of magnesia to children under 6 years old
• Avoid using the concentrated liquid form in children under 12 without medical advice
• Do not exceed the recommended dosage or use the product for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor
• If you have kidney problems or are on a magnesium-restricted diet, seek medical advice before use

Exploring Alternative Uses: Milk of Magnesia for Skin Conditions

While milk of magnesia is primarily known for its gastrointestinal applications, some people have explored its potential benefits for skin conditions. However, it’s crucial to approach these alternative uses with caution and skepticism.

Can milk of magnesia be used for sunburn relief?

Some individuals claim that applying a thin layer of milk of magnesia to sunburned skin can help alleviate pain and burning sensations. However, there is a lack of scientific evidence to support this use. While it may provide temporary relief for some people, it’s generally recommended to use proven sunburn treatments such as aloe vera or other specifically formulated after-sun products.

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, scientific evidence supporting this application is extremely limited. A single study from 1975 suggested potential benefits when milk of magnesia was used in combination with oral tetracycline and regular face washing. However, no further research has substantiated these findings.

If you’re considering using milk of magnesia for skin conditions, it’s advisable to consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider first. They can recommend more established and effective treatments for sunburn relief and acne management.

Comparing Milk of Magnesia to Other Laxatives and Antacids

While milk of magnesia is a popular choice for treating constipation and heartburn, it’s not the only option available. Understanding how it compares to other laxatives and antacids can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare.

How does milk of magnesia compare to other laxatives?

Milk of magnesia is classified as a saline laxative, which works by drawing water into the intestines. Other types of laxatives include:

• Bulk-forming laxatives (e.g., psyllium husk)
• Stimulant laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl)
• Stool softeners (e.g., docusate sodium)
• Lubricant laxatives (e.g., mineral oil)

Compared to these alternatives, milk of magnesia tends to work relatively quickly and is generally well-tolerated. However, the choice of laxative should be based on individual needs, medical history, and healthcare provider recommendations.

How effective is milk of magnesia as an antacid?

As an antacid, milk of magnesia works by neutralizing stomach acid, which can help alleviate symptoms of indigestion and heartburn. While it can be effective for occasional use, other antacids such as calcium carbonate or aluminum hydroxide may be preferred for frequent heartburn relief. For chronic acid reflux or GERD, proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers might be more appropriate.

Long-term Use and Safety Considerations

While milk of magnesia is generally safe for short-term use, there are important considerations for those who may need to use it more frequently or for extended periods.

Is it safe to use milk of magnesia regularly?

Milk of magnesia is not intended for long-term or frequent use without medical supervision. Regular use can lead to:

• Electrolyte imbalances
• Dependence on laxatives
• Masking of underlying health conditions

If you find yourself needing to use milk of magnesia regularly for constipation or heartburn, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help identify any underlying causes and recommend more appropriate long-term solutions.

What are the risks of overusing milk of magnesia?

Overuse of milk of magnesia can lead to several health issues, including:

• Dehydration
• Magnesium toxicity (especially in people with kidney problems)
• Chronic diarrhea
• Interference with the absorption of other medications

To minimize these risks, always follow the recommended dosage and avoid using milk of magnesia for more than 7 consecutive days without medical advice.

Interactions with Other Medications and Supplements

Understanding potential interactions between milk of magnesia and other substances is crucial for safe and effective use.

Can milk of magnesia interact with other medications?

Yes, milk of magnesia can interact with various medications. Some notable interactions include:

• Antibiotics: Milk of magnesia may reduce the absorption of certain antibiotics
• Blood thinners: It may alter the effectiveness of anticoagulant medications
• Osteoporosis medications: It can interfere with the absorption of bisphosphonates
• Heart medications: It may affect the absorption of digoxin and other cardiac drugs

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you’re taking before using milk of magnesia.

Are there any dietary considerations when using milk of magnesia?

While milk of magnesia doesn’t have specific food interactions, it’s generally recommended to:

• Take it on an empty stomach for optimal effectiveness
• Avoid taking it within 2 hours of other medications
• Stay well-hydrated, especially when using it as a laxative

Additionally, if you’re on a magnesium-restricted diet due to kidney issues or other health conditions, consult your healthcare provider before using milk of magnesia.

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.