Why is this medication prescribed?

Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide are commonly prescribed together or in combination with other medications for the treatment of symptoms related to excess stomach acid and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

• Antacid Properties: Both aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide are antacids. They work by neutralizing stomach acid, which helps to relieve symptoms such as heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux.
• Relief of GERD Symptoms: These medications are particularly useful in providing short-term relief from the symptoms of GERD, including regurgitation, chest pain, and sour taste in the mouth.
• Adjunct to Other Treatments: They are often used alongside other medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2-receptor antagonists (H2 blockers) to manage and alleviate symptoms of GERD or peptic ulcer disease.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines on how aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide should be used:

• Dosage: The dosage of aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide varies depending on the specific product and the severity of symptoms. Always follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider or as indicated on the product label.
• Administration: These medications usually come in the form of chewable tablets, suspensions, or chewable gummies. They should be taken orally, preferably after meals and at bedtime, or as directed by your doctor.
• Timing: It’s important to space out doses appropriately to maintain their effectiveness. Typically, they can be taken 1-2 hours after meals and at bedtime, as needed for symptom relief.
• Side Effects: Common side effects may include constipation (more common with aluminum hydroxide) or diarrhea (more common with magnesium hydroxide). If these side effects persist or worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
• Special Considerations: If you have kidney problems, check with your doctor before using these medications, especially magnesium-containing products. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult with their healthcare provider before using these medications.

In summary, aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide are prescribed to neutralize stomach acid and relieve symptoms associated with conditions like GERD. They should be used according to the prescribed dosage and directions to ensure safety and effectiveness in managing symptoms. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about their use.

Other uses for this medicine

• Phosphate Binder: In patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD), aluminum hydroxide can be used as a phosphate binder. It helps to lower phosphate levels in the blood by binding with dietary phosphate in the gut, thus reducing its absorption.
• Prevention of Kidney Stones: Magnesium hydroxide can sometimes be used to prevent the formation of kidney stones by increasing urinary pH and decreasing the concentration of substances that can form stones.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Aluminum Hydroxide and Magnesium Hydroxide:

• Kidney Function:
  • Aluminum Hydroxide: Should not be used in patients with kidney dysfunction because it can lead to aluminum accumulation in the body, potentially causing toxicity.
  • Magnesium Hydroxide: Use with caution in patients with impaired kidney function, as magnesium levels can accumulate and lead to hypermagnesemia.
• Interaction with Other Medications: Both aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide can interact with other medications. They can interfere with the absorption of certain drugs, such as antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones) and some osteoporosis medications (e.g., bisphosphonates). To minimize interactions, these antacids should be taken at least 1-2 hours apart from other medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Generally considered safe to use during pregnancy and breastfeeding when used as directed. However, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider before using any medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
• Diabetes: Magnesium hydroxide can affect blood sugar levels, so individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood glucose levels closely while using this medication.
• Avoid Prolonged Use: Long-term use of aluminum hydroxide can lead to aluminum toxicity, especially in patients with impaired kidney function. Therefore, it should only be used for short periods unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider.
• Side Effects: Common side effects include constipation (more common with aluminum hydroxide) or diarrhea (more common with magnesium hydroxide). If these side effects are persistent or severe, seek medical advice.
• Age Considerations: Use caution when administering these medications to elderly individuals, as they may be more susceptible to the side effects, particularly constipation with aluminum hydroxide and diarrhea with magnesium hydroxide.

Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide have additional uses beyond their role as antacids, such as phosphate binding in kidney disease. However, they require careful consideration of special precautions, especially regarding kidney function, interactions with other medications, and potential side effects. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and advice regarding the use of these medications.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Phosphate Binding Effects: If using aluminum hydroxide as a phosphate binder, follow any dietary recommendations provided by your healthcare provider or dietitian regarding phosphate intake.
• Avoid High Magnesium Intake: Limit intake of high magnesium foods or supplements while using magnesium hydroxide to prevent excessive magnesium levels in the body.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose of aluminum hydroxide or magnesium hydroxide and it is close to the time of your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed dose unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider.
• Follow-Up: If you frequently forget doses, consider setting reminders or alarms to help you remember. Consistent dosing is important for the effectiveness of these medications.
• Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses or your treatment regimen, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide are commonly used as antacids to relieve symptoms of heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach. They are generally considered safe when used as directed, but like any medication, they can potentially cause side effects.

Common side effects: These are the most common side effects of aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide:

• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Diarrhea
• Stomach cramps
• Dehydration

General Considerations:

• Kidney Function: Both aluminum and magnesium can affect kidney function, especially in individuals with pre-existing kidney disease. Monitoring kidney function may be necessary in such cases.
• Interactions: These antacids can interact with other medications, potentially affecting their absorption or effectiveness. It’s important to discuss all medications you are taking with your healthcare provider.
• Long-term Use: Prolonged use of aluminum-containing antacids can lead to aluminum accumulation in the body, which may be harmful, especially for individuals with impaired kidney function.

It’s important to use aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide as directed and consult a healthcare provider if you experience any concerning symptoms or if you have any pre-existing medical conditions that may interact with these medications.

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

Storage and Disposal:

• Storage:
  • Store aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide products at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
  • Follow specific storage instructions provided on the medication packaging or by your pharmacist.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused or expired medications properly to prevent accidental ingestion by pets, children, or others.
  • Follow local guidelines or consult with your pharmacist on how to safely dispose of these medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Symptoms of Overdose: Overdose with aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide may cause symptoms such as severe diarrhea (with magnesium hydroxide), constipation (with aluminum hydroxide), electrolyte imbalances, or in severe cases, hypermagnesemia or aluminum toxicity. Seek immediate medical attention or contact a poison control center (such as the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 in the United States) if overdose is suspected.
• Treatment of Overdose: Treatment of overdose typically involves supportive care to manage symptoms. This may include monitoring electrolyte levels, providing intravenous fluids, and other symptomatic treatments as necessary.

What other information should I know?

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about any history of kidney problems, diabetes, or other medical conditions before using aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide can interact with certain medications, affecting their absorption or effectiveness.
• Regular Monitoring: If using aluminum hydroxide as a phosphate binder for kidney disease, regular monitoring of phosphate levels and kidney function may be necessary.
• Follow Instructions: Follow dosing instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist carefully. Take the medications as directed and do not exceed the recommended dosage unless instructed to do so by your healthcare provider.
• Allergic Reactions: Be aware of signs of allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if any allergic reactions occur.
• Routine Check-ups: Schedule routine follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide therapy, especially if used long-term.

By understanding these storage, disposal, emergency handling procedures, and other important information, you can safely manage the use of aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide for treating conditions like GERD or excess stomach acid. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about these medications.