Magnesium Hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia)

Category:

• Gastrointestinal

Description:

• Laxative, antacid

Indications:

• Constipation

• Dyspepsia

Contraindications:

• Young children, renal impairment, hypermagnesemia

Precautions:

• CNS depression and hypotension may develop

Adverse Reactions (Side Effects):

• GI: diarrhea

• METAB: hypermagnesemia

Dosage:

Administered orally

• Dyspepsia:

  • Adult and child > = 12 years: PO 5-15ml up to 4 times daily

  • Children: PO 2.5-10ml up to 4 times daily

• Constipation:

  • Adult and child > = 12 years: PO 15-30ml daily

  • Child 6-12 years: PO 15-30 ml as a single daily dose or in divided doses

  • Child 2-5 years: PO 5-15ml daily as a single dose or in divided doses

  • Child < 2 years: PO 0.5 ml/kg PO as a single daily dose