Magnesium Hydroxide

Uses of Magnesium Hydroxide

Magnesium Hydroxide is commonly used to treat constipation, flatulence, heartburn, dyspepsia and indigestion.

How Magnesium Hydroxide Works

Magnesium hydroxide increases peristalsis by osmotically mediated water retention, the production of inflammatory mediators and the release of cholecystokinin, causing intraluminal fluid and electrolyte accumulation. It also reacts with hydrochloric acid in the stomach to form magnesium chloride and water to neutralize gastric secretion.

Side Effects of Magnesium Hydroxide

Diarrhea, Electrolyte imbalance, Bloating, Nausea, Flatulence, Increased thirst.

Warnings

Kidney Use With Care

Magnesium Hydroxide should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease due to hypermagnesemia. Dose adjustment of Magnesium Hydroxide may be needed. Please consult your doctor before using it.

Alcohol Limited Data

Drug interactions between alcohol and Magnesium Hydroxide is largely unknown. Please consult your doctor before using it.

Pregnancy Limited Data

Magnesium Hydroxide may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. No animal studies or human studies have been done to show the adverse effects on the fetus. Please consult your doctor before using it.

Driving Generally Safe

Magnesium Hydroxide cause minimal to no side effects which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive. Do not drive unless you are feeling well.

Liver Limited Data

Due to the fact that there is no data on Magnesium Hydroxide, it should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Magnesium Hydroxide may be needed. Please consult your doctor before using it.

Lactation Limited Data

Magnesium Hydroxide may be unsafe to use throughout breastfeeding period. No animal studies or human studies have been done to show the adverse effects on the feeding infant. Please consult your doctor before using it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).