A common problem that many of us face is stomach pain and chest pain. We also call this "gastritis," right? So, at a time like this, a doctor may have prescribed a white, milky liquid medicine for you to drink. This is a medicine that we often keep in our homes. Today, we are talking about this medicine that you know well, but do not know the exact details.
What actually happens with this medicine?
Simply put, this is a medicine that belongs to the antacid class of drugs. It mainly contains two compounds called Aluminum Hydroxide and Magnesium Hydroxide .
Our stomach naturally produces a powerful acid called hydrochloric acid, which helps digest food. Sometimes, due to the food we eat, lifestyle mistakes, or other medical conditions, this acid can be produced in excess. That's when we get symptoms like heartburn, a feeling of being stuck in our throat, and a burning sensation in our chest.
This antacid liquid neutralizes the excess acid in the stomach. Just like adding a little lime to a lemon removes the sour taste, this medicine controls the acidity in the stomach and gives you quick relief.
There is a special reason why these two compounds are combined. If you take aluminum hydroxide alone, you can cause constipation. If you take magnesium hydroxide alone, you can cause diarrhea. So when you combine these two together, those two side effects are balanced.
Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Although this is a medication that can be easily purchased at a pharmacy, there are a few things you should definitely tell your doctor before using it. Especially if you have any of the following conditions:
| Illness or condition | Why should you care? |
|---|---|
| Kidney disease | When the kidneys are not functioning properly, the magnesium and aluminum contained in the medication can accumulate in the body and cause damage. |
| Liver disease | Sometimes you have to be careful. |
| Constipation or diarrhea | This medicine may increase or decrease these conditions. |
| Eating a salt-controlled diet (Sodium restricted diet) | Some antacids may contain sodium. |
| Bleeding or blockage in the stomach or intestines | Symptoms may be hidden or the condition may worsen. |
| Being pregnant or trying to get pregnant | Should be used only on medical advice. |
| Being a breastfeeding mother | It is essential to seek medical advice. |
| Allergies to other medications, foods, or substances | This medicine can also cause an allergy. |
How exactly do you use this medicine?
For a medicine to work properly, it must be used correctly.
- Shake well: Since this is a liquid, particles of the medicine may settle to the bottom of the bottle. Therefore, always shake the bottle well before use.
- Correct measurement: Use the special cap, cup, or syringe that comes with the medicine to measure it. Do not use household teaspoons or tablespoons , as they are not accurate.
- When to take: This medicine is usually taken after main meals and before going to bed at night . However, it is best to take it exactly as your doctor has told you.
- Drink a glass of water: Drinking a glass of water after taking the medicine helps the medicine to pass through the stomach properly.
- Only take the prescribed dose: Do not take more than the amount prescribed by your doctor or more frequently than prescribed.
What to do if you take too much medicine?
If you think you have taken too much of this medicine, the first thing to do is not to panic and go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
What if I miss a dose of medication?
If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the scheduled time. Never take a double dose.
Other medications that may interact with this medicine
This is a very important fact that many people don't know. Antacids are a type of medication that can interfere with the absorption of many other medications.
Golden rule: If you are taking any other medication, take it 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking this antacid . This way, you can avoid any interactions between the two medications.
Below are some medications that may interact with this medicine. If you are taking any of these, be sure to talk to your doctor.
- Antibiotics
- Iron salts
- Some medications for diabetes
- Heart medications (e.g. Digoxin)
- Medicines for high blood pressure (e.g. Captopril)
- Medications for fungal infections
- Medications for seizures
- Thyroid hormones
This list is not complete, so tell your doctor about all the medications you take (including vitamins and herbal products) .
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
- Do not use for more than a week: Do not continue to use this medicine for more than a week without consulting a doctor. If your symptoms do not improve or worsen, be sure to see a doctor.
- Warning signs: If you have black tarry stools, rectal bleeding, or extreme fatigue , seek medical attention immediately. These could be signs of another serious condition.
- Drink plenty of water: Drink several glasses of water a day to prevent constipation.
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this can cause side effects in some people.
| Serious side effects that should be reported to the doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Increased magnesium levels in the body | Confusion, excessive sleepiness, flushing, sweating, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat. (This can occur especially in kidney patients) |
| Things that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Constipation | It may be caused by the aluminum in the medicine. |
| Diarrhea | It may be caused by the magnesium in the medicine. |
Take-Home Message
- This medicine (antacid) is used to treat temporary discomforts such as heartburn and indigestion. It does not treat the underlying cause of the disease.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have (especially kidney disease) and all other medications you are taking.
- If you are taking other medications, take them 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking this medicine.
- If symptoms do not improve after taking medication for a week or if warning signs such as black stools appear, seek medical advice immediately.
- Avoid using this medicine for a long time without consulting a doctor.
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