Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral. Magnesium hydroxide reduces stomach acid, and increases water in the intestines which may induce bowel movements.
Magnesium hydroxide is used as a laxative to relieve occasional constipation.
Magnesium hydroxide is also used as an antacid to relieve indigestion, sour stomach, and heartburn.
Magnesium hydroxide may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Milk Of Magnesia (Magnesium Hydroxide)?
Do not use magnesium hydroxide without a doctor's advice if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if this medicine 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 been ongoing for longer than 2 weeks.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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Side Effects
What are the side effects of Milk Of Magnesia (Magnesium Hydroxide)?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using magnesium hydroxide and call your doctor at once 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 may include:
- diarrhea; or
- a decreased sense of taste.
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.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
Can I take Milk Of Magnesia (Magnesium Hydroxide) if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Interactions
What drugs and food should I avoid while taking Milk Of Magnesia (Magnesium Hydroxide)?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Dosage Guidelines & Tips
How to take Milk Of Magnesia (Magnesium Hydroxide)?
Use Milk Of Magnesia (Magnesium Hydroxide) exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
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.
Since magnesium hydroxide is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
Overdose Signs
What happens if I overdose on Milk Of Magnesia (Magnesium Hydroxide)?
Overdose symptoms may include severe diarrhea, muscle weakness, shortness of breath, and little or no urination.