What is Magnesium hydroxide - Meaning and definition

A solution of magnesium hydroxide with antacid and laxative properties.
Milk of Magnesia exerts its antacid activity in low doses such that all hydroxide ions that enter the stomach are used to neutralize stomach acid. This agent exerts its laxative effect in higher doses so that hydroxide ions are able to move from the stomach to the intestines where they attract and retain water, thereby increasing intestinal movement (peristalsis) and inducing the urge to defecate.

National Cancer Institute. NCI Drug Dictionary. Internet. September 15, 2009.

Adult
PO
Various GI problems associated with hyperacidity: up to 1 g/day usually given w/ an Al-containing antacid.
As an osmotic laxative: 2.4-4.8 g/day in single or divided doses.

Adverse drug reactions: GI irritation, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, hypermagnesemia (in patients with renal impairment).

Adapted from CIMS Drug Information System. Internet. Accessed on January 10, 2016.

To cite

Magnesium hydroxide (n.d.) In Pallipedia. Houston: IAHPC. Retrieved from https://pallipedia.org/magnesium-hydroxide/. Accessed on