Why is this medication prescribed?

Mylanta is an over-the-counter medication used for the relief of heartburn, acid indigestion, sour stomach, and gas. It belongs to a class of drugs known as antacids. The primary active ingredients in Mylanta are aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone. Here’s why Mylanta may be prescribed:

• Heartburn and Acid Indigestion: Mylanta helps neutralize excess stomach acid, which can cause heartburn and acid indigestion. This provides quick relief from the burning sensation and discomfort associated with these conditions.
• Sour Stomach: Sour stomach refers to an upset stomach characterized by nausea, bloating, and a feeling of discomfort. Mylanta can alleviate these symptoms by neutralizing stomach acid.
• Gas: Mylanta contains simethicone, which helps break up gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines. This reduces the feeling of bloating and helps to relieve gas-related discomfort.

How should this medicine be used?

• Read the Label: Follow the instructions and dosing information provided on the product label or as directed by your healthcare professional.
• Shake the Bottle: Before using Mylanta liquid, shake the bottle well to ensure an even distribution of the active ingredients.
• Measuring Dose: If Mylanta comes with a measuring cup or a dosing device, use it to measure the appropriate dose. Otherwise, use a standard measuring spoon.
• Oral Administration: Mylanta is typically taken orally as a liquid or chewable tablet. It’s important to swallow the liquid or chew the tablet thoroughly before swallowing.
• Timing: Mylanta is usually taken as needed, after meals, or at bedtime, depending on the symptoms being treated. Follow the recommended dosing frequency for your specific condition.
• Avoid Mixing: If you are taking other medications, check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure that there are no interactions between Mylanta and your other drugs. Antacids can interfere with the absorption of certain medications.
• Follow Recommendations: If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have kidney problems, or have any other pre-existing medical conditions, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using Mylanta.
• Adhere to the Duration: Mylanta is designed for short-term relief of symptoms. If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you need to use Mylanta frequently, consult your healthcare provider.

Remember, Mylanta is meant for occasional use to alleviate mild gastrointestinal symptoms. If you experience chronic or severe digestive issues, it’s essential to seek medical advice for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Other uses for this medicine

Apart from its primary use for heartburn and acid indigestion, Mylanta may also have other uses:

• Relief from gas: Some Mylanta formulations contain simethicone, which helps break down gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines, providing relief from bloating and gas discomfort.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Mylanta can be used as a short-term measure to alleviate symptoms of GERD, such as heartburn and acid reflux. However, it is not a long-term solution for managing this condition.
• Dyspepsia: Mylanta may help relieve indigestion or dyspepsia symptoms, which can include discomfort, fullness, and bloating in the upper abdomen.
• Hiatal hernia: Mylanta may be used to alleviate symptoms associated with a hiatal hernia, such as heartburn.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Mylanta:

• Allergies: If you have allergies to any of the active or inactive ingredients in Mylanta, avoid using the product and consult your healthcare provider for an alternative.
• Medical Conditions: If you have kidney problems or are on a low-magnesium diet, consult your doctor before using Mylanta. Antacids containing magnesium can lead to an accumulation of magnesium in individuals with impaired kidney function.
• Drug Interactions: Mylanta can interfere with the absorption of other medications. If you are taking prescription medications, especially tetracyclines, ciprofloxacin, iron supplements, or certain antifungal drugs, talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist to determine if there are any potential interactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using Mylanta to ensure it is safe for you and your baby.
• Avoid Overuse: Mylanta is intended for short-term use and occasional relief. Prolonged or excessive use of antacids can lead to imbalances in the body’s acid-base equilibrium and may mask underlying medical conditions.
• Age Considerations: Special caution should be exercised when using Mylanta in infants and young children. Always follow the recommended dosages for specific age groups and seek pediatrician advice if necessary.
• Symptoms Persist: If you experience persistent or severe symptoms despite using Mylanta, seek medical attention for a proper evaluation and treatment plan.

As with any medication, it’s crucial to follow the product’s instructions and consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns regarding the use of Mylanta.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Mylanta is generally safe to take with or without food. However, some dietary considerations can help improve its effectiveness:

• Avoid Trigger Foods: If you suffer from heartburn or acid indigestion, consider avoiding spicy, greasy, acidic, and fatty foods, as they can worsen symptoms.
• Moderation: Overeating can lead to heartburn and indigestion. Practice portion control and avoid large meals, especially close to bedtime.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink enough water throughout the day to help with digestion and avoid dehydration, which can worsen digestive issues.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Mylanta and need immediate relief from heartburn or indigestion, you can take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, do not take a double dose to make up for the missed one, as this could lead to potential side effects or interactions.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Mylanta is generally considered safe when used as directed for short-term relief of mild gastrointestinal symptoms. However, like any medication, it can potentially cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects of Mylanta may include:

• Constipation: The aluminum and calcium components in Mylanta can cause constipation in some people, especially if used for an extended period or in higher-than-recommended doses.
• Diarrhea: While not as common as constipation, Mylanta may cause diarrhea, particularly if used excessively or if an individual is sensitive to the active ingredients.
• Nausea or Vomiting: Some individuals may experience feelings of nausea or may occasionally vomit after taking Mylanta, especially if they have a sensitivity to any of the ingredients.
• Stomach Cramps: Abdominal discomfort or cramping can occur as a side effect in some people, but it is relatively uncommon.
• Loss of Appetite: Mylanta may occasionally affect appetite in some individuals, leading to a temporary decrease in appetite.
• Chalky Taste: The liquid form of Mylanta can leave a chalky or gritty taste in the mouth, which may be unpleasant for some people.
• Hypercalcemia: In rare cases, excessive or prolonged use of Mylanta, especially if taken with other calcium-containing products or supplements, can lead to an excessive buildup of calcium in the blood, a condition known as hypercalcemia.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to Mylanta are rare but can occur. Signs of an allergic reaction may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms.

It’s important to note that serious side effects from Mylanta are uncommon when the product is used as directed. However, if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms after taking Mylanta, stop using the product and consult your healthcare provider or seek medical attention.

Additionally, if you have any pre-existing medical conditions, are taking other medications, or have specific concerns about potential side effects, it’s advisable to discuss Mylanta use with your healthcare provider or pharmacist. They can help determine if Mylanta is a suitable choice for managing your specific symptoms and condition.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Mylanta:

• Storage: Keep Mylanta in its original packaging and store it at room temperature, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Follow any specific storage instructions provided on the product label.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children: Store Mylanta in a secure location, out of the reach of children and pets, to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Do Not Freeze: Avoid freezing the liquid form of Mylanta, as freezing can affect its effectiveness.
• Do Not Use Expired Product: Check the expiration date on the packaging, and do not use Mylanta if it has passed the expiration date.
• Disposal: If you have unused or expired Mylanta, follow your local guidelines for medication disposal. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so by your local waste management authority.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or have accidentally ingested a significantly larger amount of Mylanta than recommended, contact your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Overdosing on Mylanta can lead to serious medical complications, especially if it contains ingredients like aluminum, calcium, or magnesium that can accumulate in the body in excessive amounts.

Symptoms of Mylanta overdose may include severe diarrhea, severe constipation, persistent stomach cramps, muscle weakness, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and irregular heartbeats. It’s essential to seek immediate medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

What other information should I know

• Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can worsen heartburn and indigestion symptoms, so it’s advisable to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while using Mylanta.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Mylanta can interact with certain medications, potentially reducing their effectiveness or causing other health issues. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products, to check for potential interactions.
• Avoid Prolonged Use: Mylanta is intended for short-term relief of mild gastrointestinal symptoms. If you need to use Mylanta frequently or for an extended period, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider to address the underlying cause of your symptoms.
• Read the Label: Always read the product label and follow the dosing instructions provided. If you have any questions or concerns about using Mylanta, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
• Report Side Effects: If you experience any unexpected or severe side effects while using Mylanta, contact your healthcare provider or report them to the FDA’s MedWatch program at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Remember, Mylanta is not a substitute for proper medical evaluation and treatment if you have chronic or severe gastrointestinal issues. If you experience persistent or worsening symptoms, seek medical advice for a thorough assessment and appropriate management.