MAGNESIUM HYDROXIDE
MAGNESIUM HYDROXIDE OR MILK OF MAGNESIA: Suspension
Antacids with Laxative action
Composition & action: An aqueous suspension of magnesium hydroxide containing about 8% hydrated magnesium oxide, also known as milk of magnesia is an effective osmotic laxative. This magnesium salt is useful where rapid bowel evacuation is required & acts as an osmotic laxative by retaining water within the gut. This is also an effective antacid and bowel disturbances are minimized when combined with a potentially constipating aluminum salt.
Ind: Constipation, heartburn. gas & nausea. Acute & chronic constipation due to hyperacidity & peptic ulcer.
C/I: Do not use where use fo laxative is contra-indicated; acute gastro-intestinal conditions; renal failure (risk of magnesium accumulation).
S/E: Diarrhoea; abdominal colic.
Caution: Hepatic impairment elderly and debilitated; heart block, myocardial disease; pregnancy.
Doses: Adults & older children- 5 to 10 tsp in a single dose or in divided doses with a glass of water.
Children: 6-11 years, 3 to 5 tsp in a single dose or in divided doses with water; 2-5 years, 1 to 3 tsp in a single dose or in divided doses with water.