Narrow Your Choices
MAGNESIUM HYDROXIDE
Combination drugs: Advanced Formula Di-Gel® Tablets, Calcium Rich Rolaids®, Co-Magaldrox, Maalox Plus®, Maalox®, Mucaine®, Mylanta®, Tempo® Tablets
Magnesium hydroxide is used as an antacid for short-term relief of stomach upset and as a laxative for short-term treatment of constipation. Magnesium hydroxide is available in nonprescription products alone and in combination with other nonprescription ingredients to relieve stomach upset.
Safetychecker Summary
for Magnesium Hydroxide
(for details about the summarized interactions, read the full article)
 May be Beneficial: Depletion or
interference—The medication may deplete or interfere with the absorption or
function of the nutrient. Taking these nutrients may help replenish them. |
Folic Acid Iron* |
Check: Other—Before taking any of these supplements or eating any of
these foods with your medication, read this article in full for details. |
Potassium |
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known |
| Supportive interaction |
None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability |
None known |
| Adverse interaction |
None known |
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Folic
acid
Folic acid is needed by the body to utilize
vitamin B12. Antacids, including magnesium hydroxide, inhibit folic acid
absorption.1 People taking antacids are advised to supplement with folic acid.
Iron
Antacids, including magnesium hydroxide, may
reduce the absorption of dietary iron. Iron supplements do not require stomach acid for
absorption and one human study found that a magnesium hydroxide/aluminum hydroxide antacid did not decrease
supplemental iron absorption.2
Potassium
Individuals taking potassium-depleting
diuretics and those who are otherwise at risk of developing potassium deficiency (such as
people with chronic diarrhea or vomiting) may
experience a fall in serum potassium levels if they take magnesium without taking additional
potassium.3 This could lead to muscle cramps or, in individuals taking digoxin or digitalis, more serious problems such as cardiac arrhythmias. Individuals who have a
history of potassium deficiency and those who are at risk of developing potassium deficiency,
as well as people taking digoxin or digitalis, should consult a physician before taking
magnesium-containing products.
References:
1. Russell RM, Golner BB, Krasinski SD, et al. Effect of antacid and H2 receptor antagonists on the intestinal absorption of folic acid. J Lab Clin Med 1988;112:458–63.
2. O’Neil-Cutting MA, Crosby WH. The effect of antacids on the absorption of simultaneously ingested iron. JAMA 1986;255:1468–70.
3. Dyckner T, Wester PO. Ventricular extrasystoles and intracellular electrolytes before and after potassium and magnesium infusions in patients on diuretic treatment. Am Heart J 1979;97:12–8.
Copyright © 2002 Healthnotes, Inc. All rights reserved. www.healthnotes.com
Please read the disclaimer about the limitations of the information provided here. Do NOT rely solely on the information in this article.
Learn more about Healthnotes, the company.
Learn more about the authors of Safetychecker.
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2003.
Your Recent History
|
|
|
|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Call us M-F 9am-5pm: 212-279-0552
Information on this site is provided for informational purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professional. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing any medication. Information about each product is taken from the labels of the products or from the manufacturer's advertising material. MotherNature is not responsible for any statements or claims that various manufacturers make about their products. We cannot be held responsible for typographical errors or product formulation changes. You should read carefully all product packaging. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.All discounts are taken from suggested retail prices. Prices are subject to change.
Please see our Terms of Use
Copyright © 1995-2012 MotherNature All rights reserved.