Uses
Aluminum hydroxide either alone or in combination with some other drugs is used to treat heartburn, upset or sour stomach, peptic ulcer and related pain, gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is also used in patients with kidney problems to reduce phosphate levels. Simethicone is used to relieve painful pressure, hiccups, bloating and fullness caused by excess gas in the stomach and intestines in adults as well as in children. Magnesium hydroxide is used to relieve the symptoms of indigestion, heartburn, constipation and excess acid.
How it works
Aluminum hydroxide belongs to a class of medication call antacids. It acts by neutralizing the acids released in the stomach thus treating the above mentioned conditions. Simethicone belongs to class of medications called surface active substances. It is an antifoaming agents and works by acting on inner lining of intestine and allowing gas bubbles to come together more easily helping to release trapped wind. Magnesium hydroxide is an alkali belongs to class of medications called antacids. It works by neutralizing the acid in the stomach and by stimulating the bowels to move.
Common side effects
Muscle discomfort, Loss of appetite or constipation, Coughing blood or extreme drowsiness., Allergic reactions like swelling of face, Black or bloody stools, Unusual tiredness, Mouth, Pain while urinating, Confusion, Tongue or throat
- Do not take aluminum hydroxide if you are allergic to aluminum hydroxide or any of the other ingredient of this tablet or syrup especially sucrose.
- Do not take this tablet two hours before or after any medication.
- Consult your doctor before taking aluminum hydroxide : if you have a history of hypertension or heart problem; kidney stones or any kidney disease; severe constipation; gastrointestinal bleeding; or dehydration.
- Avoid using aluminum hydroxide if you have alcohol addiction or take alcohol frequently.
- Consult your doctor before taking aluminum hydroxide if you are pregnant or breast-feeding if you are taking antibiotics, heart medication, arthritis medication, anti-pain medication or iron supplements.
Frequently asked questions
Aluminium Hydroxide
Q. How does aluminium hydroxide work?
Aluminum hydroxide belongs to a class of medication call antacids. It acts by neutralizing the acids released in the stomach thus treating irritation of stomach lining.
Q. Is aluminium hydroxide an alkali/ weak base/strong base/amphoteric?
Aluminium hydroxide is a strong base and is amphoteric.
Q. Is aluminium hydroxide safe?
Aluminium hydroxide is safe when taken for an indication and at a dose strictly instructed by your doctor.
Q. Is aluminium hydroxide safe in pregnancy?
There are no studies in pregnant women showing safety of this drug. Inform your doctor immediately if you find that you are pregnant while taking the drug and follow the doctor’s instructions clearly as to further use.
Q. Is aluminium hydroxide known to cause Alzheimer’s?
Aluminium hydroxide was thought to be associated with neurological symptoms. Studies clearly show that aluminum hydroxide does not cause neurological symptoms and thus does not cause Alzheimer’s.
Simethicone
Q. Is simethicone safe in pregnancy?
It is not known whether simethicone is safe in pregnancy. Hence, it is advisable to consult your doctor before taking the medicine.
Q. Is simethicone antacid? Does it contain aspirin?
No. Simethicone is not an antacid. But it is used in preparations which are used as antacid. It does not contain aspirin.
Q. Is simethicone available over the counter?
Yes. Simethicone is sold over the counter without a prescription.
Q. Is simethicone gluten free?
Yes. Simethicone is gluten free. However, please refer to package insert of the prescribed brand before use.
Q. Is simethicone safe? Is it safe for babies?
Yes. Simethicone is relatively safe, even for infants and babies, if used as recommended. In case of any side-effects, consult your doctor.
Q. Is it safe to take simethicone daily?
It is advisable to take simethicone only as per the instructions of the doctor.
Q. Is simethicone good for gas? Does it have any side effects?
Yes. Simethicone is effective in the treatment of gas. It does not have any known serious side-effects.
Q. Can I take simethicone with ibuprofen, famotidine, lansoprazole, omeprazole, antibiotics, ranitidine, ciprofloxacin, Pepto-bismol, or Depakote?
Yes. Simethicone can be taken with ibuprofen, famotidine, lansoprazole, omeprazole, antibiotics, ranitidine, ciprofloxacin, Pepto-bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) or Depakote (divalproate sodium), if prescribed by your doctor.
Q. Does simethicone cause nausea or constipation?
Simethicone is not known to cause nausea or constipation. If you experience any such symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Q. Is simethicone effective against acid reflux?
Simethicone is effective in controlling acid reflux if combined with an antacid.
Magnesium Hydroxide (Milk Of Magnesia)
Q. Is magnesium hydroxide an alkali/strong base/salt/solid/gas? Is it amphoteric?
Magnesium hydroxide is a salt/solid. After administration it dissociates and OH is alkaline/baseforms. Magnesium hydroxide is not a gas and not amphoteric in nature.
Q. Is magnesium hydroxide safe?
Magnesium hydroxide is safe if used as recommended. In case of any side effects, consult your doctor.
Q. Is magnesium hydroxide soluble, aqueous/dissolves in water?
Magnesium hydroxide is slightly soluble/dissolves in water and is aqueous.
Q. Does magnesium hydroxide cause diarrhea?
Magnesium hydroxide can cause diarrhea.
Q. Does magnesium hydroxide neutralize stomach acid?
Magnesium hydroxide neutralizes the acid in the stomach.
Q. How does magnesium hydroxide cure an upset stomach?
Magnesium ion released from magnesium hydroxide causes neutralization of acid in the stomach and release of cholecystokinin (peptide hormone) that results in accumulation of water and increased intestinal motility.