Magnesium hydroxide

Magnesium is a mineral that occurs naturally. Magnesium hydroxide helps lower stomach acid and increases water in the intestines, which can lead to bowel movements.

Magnesium hydroxide is used as a laxative to help relieve occasional constipation.

Magnesium hydroxide is also used as an antacid to help relieve indigestion, sour stomach, and heartburn.

Magnesium hydroxide may also be used for reasons not mentioned in this medication guide.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

You may need to shake the oral suspension before each use.

You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.

Take this medicine with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.

When taken as a laxative, magnesium hydroxide should produce a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with magnesium hydroxide does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this medicine.

Do not use magnesium hydroxide for longer than 7 days without medical advice.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Do not use magnesium hydroxide without a doctor's advice if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.

Do not use magnesium hydroxide without a doctor's advice if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if magnesium hydroxide is safe to use if:

• you have kidney disease;
• you are on a low-magnesium diet; or
• you have a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted more than 2 weeks.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Magnesium hydroxide may cause serious side effects. Stop using magnesium hydroxide and call your doctor right away if you have:

• severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;
• no bowel movement after using the medicine as a laxative;
• rectal bleeding; or
• worsening symptoms.

Common side effects of magnesium hydroxide may include:

• diarrhea; or
• a decreased sense of taste.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may happen. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You can report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Since magnesium hydroxide is used as needed, you might not follow a dosing schedule. If you miss a dose and it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include severe diarrhea, muscle weakness, shortness of breath, and little or no urination.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Other drugs may interact with magnesium hydroxide, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor about all your current medications and any medicines you begin or discontinue.