Index
It is an antacid that neutralizes and reduces acidity and indigestion by relieving stomach acid.
Properties
The magaldrate is a complex of magnesium aluminate hydrated and must be administered orally so that it reacts with the H + of the gastric juices, neutralizing them. This will increase the pH inside the stomach.
The product of the reaction is eliminated in the feces.
Applications
It is commonly used to treat upset stomach, ulcers, hiatal hernia, and other digestive disorders such as:
- Symptomatic treatment of stomach acidity.
- Gastritis.
- Esophageal inflammations
- Gastroduodenal ulcers
How to use
Take this medication as directed, usually between meals and before bedtime.
The liquid form should be shaken well before pouring each dose. Chewable tablets should be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. Follow with a glass of water.
The non-chewable tablets should be swallowed whole, followed by a glass of water.
This medicine is available in suspension, chewable tablets, or swallow tablets. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to help you select the best product for you.
Adverse effects
This medication is usually well tolerated.
It can cause loss of appetite, diarrhea, or constipation. Tell your doctor if you develop: brown vomiting, dark urine, or tarry stools. If you notice other effects not mentioned above, contact your doctor immediately.
Precautions
Tell your doctor if you have:
- Stomach disorders
- Renal disease.
- Allergies
This medicine should be used only if it is strictly necessary during pregnancy. Talk about the risks and benefits with your doctor. Consult your doctor before using any medication while breastfeeding.
Do not take more than prescribed. Too much antacid can increase the amount of acid produced by the stomach.
Interactions with magaldrate
Tell your doctor about any over-the-counter or prescription medications you can take, especially iron, tetracycline, oral antidiabetic, and digoxin.
Avoid taking any medication within 1 to 2 hours after taking an antacid. The antacid can interfere with the absorption of any other medicines.
Do not start or stop any medication without the approval of a doctor or pharmacist.
Overdose
Call your local poison control center or emergency room if an overdose is suspected.
Too much antacid can increase the amount of acid produced by the stomach and be fatal.
Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember it. If the time comes for the following amount, do not take both. In this case, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule.
Storage
Store the tablets and capsules at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) in a cool, dry place away from heat and light.
The liquid version of this medication can be stored in the refrigerator to improve the taste.
Pharmacology
Duration:
For antacid action, dependent on gastric emptying time:
- Fasting state: 20-60 minutes.
- One hour after meals: up to 3 hours on an empty stomach.
Excretion:
Aluminum oxide: the absorbed “AL” ions are eliminated in the urine (0.1-0.5 mg Al in aluminum-containing antacid is absorbed from the standard daily doses of antacid); Al salts are insoluble or poorly absorbed in the intestines are they excrete in the stool.
Magnesium oxide: absorbed Mg ions (up to 30%) are eliminated in the urine, and the unabsorbed drug is excreted in the stool.