Magnesium oxide constipation

Generic Name: magnesium hydroxide (mag NEE see um hye DROCK side)
Brand Name: Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia, Milk of Magnesia, Pedia-Lax Chewable, Phillips Milk of Magnesia, Concentrated Phillips Milk of Magnesia

What is magnesium hydroxide?

Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral. Magnesium is important for many systems in the body especially the muscles and nerves. Magnesium hydroxide also reduces stomach acid, and increases water in the intestines which may induce defecation.

Magnesium hydroxide is used as a laxative to relieve occasional constipation (irregularity) and as an antacid to relieve indigestion, sour stomach, and heartburn.

Magnesium hydroxide may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What is the most important information I should know about magnesium hydroxide?

Do not use magnesium hydroxide without a doctor's advice if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.

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Call your doctor at once if you have if you have a sudden change in bowel habits that persists over a period of 2 weeks. Do not use magnesium hydroxide for longer than 7 days without medical advice.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking magnesium hydroxide?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially kidney disease.

It is not known whether magnesium hydroxide will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether magnesium hydroxide will be harmful to an nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take magnesium hydroxide?

Use 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.

The chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.

Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

You may need to shake the oral suspension before each use.

Do not use magnesium hydroxide for longer than 7 days without medical advice.

Call your doctor at once if you have if you have a sudden change in bowel habits that persists over a period of 2 weeks.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since magnesium hydroxide is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are on a schedule, use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.