ALUMINUM HYDROXIDE SUSPENSION - ORAL

ALUMINUM HYDROXIDE SUSPENSION - ORAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (a-LOO-mi-num hye-DROX-ide)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Alternagel, Amphojel

GENERIC NAME(S): aluminum hydroxide

Uses

USES: This medication is used to treat the symptoms of too much stomach acid such as stomach upset, heartburn, and acid indigestion. Aluminum hydroxide is an antacid that works quickly to lower the acid in the stomach. Liquid antacids usually work faster/better than tablets or capsules. This medication works only on existing acid in the stomach. It does not prevent acid production. It may be used alone or with other medications that lower acid production (e.g., H2 blockers such as cimetidine/ranitidine and proton pump inhibitors such as omeprazole).


How to use ALUMINUM HYDROXIDE SUSPENSION - ORAL

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth between meals and at bedtime. Follow all the directions on the product package or use as directed by your doctor. If you are uncertain about any of this information, consult your doctor or pharmacist. Shake the bottle well before each dose. Refrigerating the suspension may improve the flavor. Do not freeze. This medication works best if taken without other fluids. You can mix your dose with a little water if needed. This product contains aluminum, which may react with other medications (including digoxin, iron, tetracycline antibiotics, pazopanib, quinolone antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin), preventing them from being fully absorbed by your body. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about how to schedule your medications to prevent this problem. If your acid problems persist or worsen after you have used this product for 1 week, or if you think you have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention. If you are using this medication regularly on a daily basis for more than 2 weeks, you may have a medical problem that needs different treatment. Ask your doctor if this is the right medication for you.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Constipation may occur. This could lead to other problems such as hemorrhoids and bowel obstruction. If constipation persists or worsens, contact your doctor or pharmacist promptly. If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. To minimize constipation, drink plenty of fluids and exercise. Using an antacid that contains magnesium along with this product can help prevent constipation. Stool softeners may also be helpful. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about other antacids, stool softeners and laxatives. Aluminum-containing antacids bind to phosphate, an important body chemical, in the gut. This can cause low phosphate levels if your kidneys are normal, especially if you use large doses for a long time. Tell your doctor right away if you have any of the following symptoms of low phosphate: loss of appetite, unusual tiredness, muscle weakness. Seek immediate medical attention if any of these rare but very serious side effects or symptoms of a serious medical problem occur: black/tarry stools, mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion, deep sleep), pain with urination, stomach/abdominal pain, vomit that looks like coffee grounds. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking aluminum hydroxide, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this product: frequent alcohol use, severe loss of body water (dehydration/fluid restriction), problems with constipation, kidney problems (including kidney stones). During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication may pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: See also How to Use section. Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval. Antacids can interfere with the absorption of many other drugs. Be sure to check with your pharmacist before taking antacids with any other medication.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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Faq for ALUMINUM HYDROXIDE SUSPENSION - ORAL

Aluminum hydroxide suspension is commonly used to treat symptoms of stomach acid and indigestion, such as heartburn, sour stomach, and upset stomach.

Aluminum hydroxide works by neutralizing excess stomach acid, providing relief from symptoms associated with acid reflux and indigestion.

It is typically recommended to follow the instructions provided by your doctor or pharmacist. Generally, aluminum hydroxide suspension is taken by mouth, either after meals or as directed. Shake the suspension well before use and measure the dose using a special measuring spoon or device.

Some common side effects include constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and stomach cramps. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional.

It is crucial to inform your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Some medications, such as certain antibiotics, iron supplements, and antacids containing calcium, may interact with aluminum hydroxide suspension.

The onset of relief provided by aluminum hydroxide suspension varies from person to person. It may take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour for the medication to start working. It is recommended to follow the recommended dosage and consult your doctor if symptoms persist.

It is essential to consult your doctor or healthcare professional before using any medications during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. They can assess the potential risks and benefits and provide appropriate guidance.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.