Slow-Mag

Calcium and magnesium are minerals that occur naturally. Calcium is important for building and keeping bones healthy. Magnesium supports muscle function and helps keep the heart beating normally.

Slow-Mag is a combination medicine used as a supplement. Slow-Mag is taken when your diet does not supply enough of these minerals, or when they are lost through sweating.

Slow-Mag 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.

Swallow the tablet whole and do not crush, chew, or break it.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Follow all instructions on your medicine label and package. Inform all your healthcare providers about your medical conditions, allergies, and all medications you are taking.

You should not use Slow-Mag if you have ever had an allergic reaction to an antacid or a vitamin/mineral supplement that contains calcium carbonate or magnesium chloride.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine is safe to use if you have:

• kidney disease;
• a history of kidney stones;
• heart disease; or
• a blockage in your intestines.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your dose may need to be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing.

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

Slow-Mag may cause serious side effects. Stop using Slow-Mag and call your doctor right away if you have:

• nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, loss of appetite, increased thirst or urination;
• muscle pain or weakness, joint pain;
• confusion, feeling tired or restless; or
• slow heart rate, drowsiness, feeling light-headed.

Common side effects of Slow-Mag may include:

• diarrhea;
• constipation; or
• upset stomach.

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

Since Slow-Mag is used as needed, you might not have a set dosing schedule. If you miss a dose and it's almost time for your next dose, just skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at once.

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

Do not take other medicines at the same time you take Slow-Mag.

Calcium carbonate can make it harder for your body to absorb certain drugs, which can make them less effective. If you take other medicines, take your Slow-Mag dose 2 hours before or 2 hours after you take the other medicine.

Tell your doctor about all your other medicines, especially:

• an antibiotic;
• heart or blood pressure medicine; or
• medicine to treat osteoporosis or Paget's disease of bone--Actonel, Boniva, Fosamax, Reclast, Zometa, and others.

This list is not complete. Other drugs may affect Slow-Mag, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.