Milk Of Magnesia Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

This medication is used for a short time to treat occasional constipation. It is a laxative (osmotic-type) that is thought to work by drawing water into the intestines, an effect that helps to cause movement of the intestines.This medication is also used to treat symptoms caused by too much stomach acid such as heartburn, upset stomach, or indigestion. It is an antacid that works by lowering the amount of acid in the stomach.

How to use Milk Of Magnesia Suspension, (Final Dose Form)

Take this product by mouth as directed. For the chewable form, chew thoroughly before swallowing. For the liquid form, shake the bottle well before each dose. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. If you are taking this medication for constipation, drink a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) with each dose. Follow all directions on the product package, or use as directed by your doctor. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Extended use or overuse of this medication for constipation may result in dependence on laxatives and ongoing constipation. Overuse may also cause diarrhea that doesn’t stop, dehydration, and mineral imbalances (such as high magnesium).

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse. For constipation problems, it may take 30 minutes to 6 hours to produce a bowel movement. Tell your doctor if this product does not produce a bowel movement, if you need to use this medication or other laxative products regularly for more than 1 week, or if you have rectal bleeding. For stomach acid problems, do not take the maximum dose of this medication for more than 2 weeks unless directed by your doctor. If you think you may have a serious medical problem, get medical help right away.

Side Effects

Diarrhea may occur. If this effect lasts or gets worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: symptoms of high magnesium levels (such as muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat, slow/shallow breathing, mental/mood changes such as confusion), symptoms of dehydration (such as decreased urination, dizziness, extreme thirst, very dry mouth), stomach/abdominal pain, bloody stools, rectal bleeding.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking magnesium hydroxide, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, appendicitis or symptoms of appendicitis (such as stomach/abdominal pain, nausea/vomiting), magnesium-restricted diet, sudden change in bowel habits that lasts for longer than 2 weeks.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug include: raltegravir, sodium polystyrene sulfonate.

Magnesium hydroxide can decrease the absorption of other drugs such as dasatinib, atazanavir, gabapentin, digoxin, mycophenolate, phosphate supplements (such as potassium phosphate), tetracycline antibiotics (such as doxycycline, minocycline), certain azole antifungals (ketoconazole, itraconazole), and quinolone antibiotics (such as ciprofloxacin, levofloxacin). Separate your doses of these medications as far as possible from your doses of magnesium hydroxide. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about how long you should wait between doses and for help finding a dosing schedule that will work with all your medications.

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Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: diarrhea that is severe or doesn’t stop, muscle weakness, mental/mood changes (such as confusion), slow/irregular heartbeat, decreased urination, dizziness.

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and diet changes (including drinking enough water, eating a proper diet with fiber-rich foods such as bran, fresh fruits/vegetables) may prevent or relieve constipation.

Lifestyle changes such as stress reduction programs, stopping smoking, limiting alcohol, and diet changes (such as avoiding caffeine/certain spices) may help to reduce heartburn and other stomach acid problems.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes that might benefit you.

Not applicable.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Images

Milk of Magnesia 400 mg/5 mL oral suspension

Color: pinkShape: Imprint:

This medicine is a pink, wild cherry, suspension

Milk of Magnesia 400 mg/5 mL oral suspension

Color: whiteShape: Imprint:

This medicine is a pink, wild cherry, suspension

Milk of Magnesia 400 mg/5 mL oral suspension

Color: whiteShape: Imprint:

This medicine is a pink, wild cherry, suspension

Milk of Magnesia 400 mg/5 mL oral suspension

Color: Shape: Imprint:

This medicine is a pink, wild cherry, suspension

Milk of Magnesia 400 mg/5 mL oral suspension

Color: Shape: Imprint:

This medicine is a pink, wild cherry, suspension

Milk of Magnesia 400 mg/5 mL oral suspension

Color: whiteShape: Imprint:

This medicine is a pink, wild cherry, suspension

Milk of Magnesia 400 mg/5 mL oral suspension

Color: whiteShape: Imprint:

This medicine is a pink, wild cherry, suspension

Milk of Magnesia 400 mg/5 mL oral suspension

Color: whiteShape: Imprint:

This medicine is a pink, wild cherry, suspension

Milk of Magnesia 400 mg/5 mL oral suspension

Color: Shape: Imprint:

This medicine is a pink, wild cherry, suspension

Milk of Magnesia 400 mg/5 mL oral suspension

Color: Shape: Imprint:

This medicine is a pink, wild cherry, suspension

Milk of Magnesia 400 mg/5 mL oral suspension

Color: Shape: Imprint:

This medicine is a pink, wild cherry, suspension

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Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

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

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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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Contents

• What is milk of magnesia?
• What causes constipation?
• How milk of magnesia works for constipation
• How to use milk of magnesia
• Who should be careful with milk of magnesia?
• Possible side effects
• How to prevent constipation
  • Eat a high fiber diet
  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Move around
• Conclusion

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What is milk of magnesia?

Constipation is a condition that affects almost everyone at some point. It occurs when bowel movements are difficult or when bowel movements occur infrequently.

With constipation, the stool stays longer in the intestines, becomes more hard and dry. This complicates the passage.

Milk of magnesia is a common over-the-counter remedy for constipation. This liquid laxative is also called magnesium hydroxide by its chemical name. It is often effective for short-term relief of constipation, but is not ideal for treating chronic constipation.

What causes constipation?

A A common cause of mild or temporary constipation is a diet low in fiber. Choosing foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can increase the amount of fiber in your diet.

Drinking too little water can have the same negative effect. Keeping hydrated is important for many reasons, including gut health.

A sedentary lifestyle can also reduce the frequency of bowel movements.

More serious health problems can also cause constipation. Irritable bowel syndrome, thyroid disease, anal blockage or swelling, and diabetes are among the conditions that can lead to constipation.

Some other factors that can cause constipation, including:

• ignoring the urge to defecate
• certain medications, such as drugs, iron supplements, or blood pressure medications
• travel
• pregnancy
• certain disorders a pelvic floor
• change of medicine
• change of diet

How milk of magnesia works for constipation

Milk of magnesia is a type of saline laxative. This type of oral laxative works by drawing water into the intestines from nearby tissues. This softens and moisturizes the stool. It also helps increase bowel activity.

These types of laxatives are also known as “salts”. They are designed for fast action. You can expect a bowel movement from 30 minutes to 6 hours after drinking milk of magnesia.

Lactulose laxatives draw more water into the intestines from surrounding tissues, but they act more slowly than saline laxatives. People use lactulose species for chronic constipation.

If you have recurring bouts of constipation or need long-term treatment, milk of magnesia is not suitable.

How to use Milk of Magnesia

Milk of Magnesia is available in both tablet and liquid form.

Whichever form of medicine you choose, read the label carefully to determine the appropriate amount for children, as it differs from the appropriate amount for adults. If something on the label confuses you, it’s always a good idea to ask a healthcare professional to guide you through it.

Recommended to take either tablet or liquid with a full 8 oz glass of water.

It is generally recommended to take milk of magnesia at bedtime.

If you are taking any other medicines, try taking them either 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking milk of magnesia.

Who should be careful with milk of magnesia?

Most people over 6 years of age can safely take milk of magnesia. For children under 6 years of age, parents should speak with their healthcare provider first.

Talk to your doctor before taking milk of magnesia if you:

• are on a magnesium-restricted diet
• take any prescription medications as some may interact with milk of magnesia Type

Milk of Magnesia is a short-term treatment. If you need to take it often to induce a bowel movement, or if you’ve tried it and still haven’t had regular bowel movements, talk to your doctor. You may have an underlying disease.

Possible side effects

The main side effect of taking milk of magnesia or any laxative is diarrhea.

If you experience diarrhea or feel sick, stop taking milk of magnesia. If a more serious side effect occurs, such as rectal bleeding, contact your doctor immediately. This may indicate more serious health problems.

It is important to note that prolonged or excessive use of this constipation medicine can lead to dependence on laxatives and persistent bowel problems.

How to prevent constipation

There are three main lifestyle choices to consider in order to prevent constipation:

Eat a high fiber diet

A high fiber diet will generally help maintain regularity. Recommended foods include:

• berries and other fruits
• green, leafy vegetables
• whole grain breads and cereals

Drink plenty of fluids

Keeping hydrated is an important part of preventing constipation. Although the adage “8 glasses a day” does not have much clinical evidence to support it, it is recommended to drink water frequently. By the time you feel thirsty, you are probably already slightly dehydrated.

Get moving

Lack of physical activity and living with obesity can contribute to constipation. Exercise is important and good for health. Solutions such as getting up frequently during the work day, taking stairs whenever possible, and even parking away from store entrances can also be helpful.

Summary

Milk of magnesia is the generic name for magnesium hydroxide, which is a type of saline laxative. Recommended for occasional constipation. You can expect a bowel movement within 6 hours of taking milk of magnesia.