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Maalox Indications

Maalox is an antacid that comes in liquid and chewable form and has regular strength and maximum strength concentrations. It is used to treat symptoms associated with heartburn, indigestion and gas. Though it's available without a prescription, there are precautions regarding the dosage and administration of Maalox, including symptoms and treatments of possible overdose.

  1. Indications and Ingredients

    • Maalox treats the symptoms of peptic ulcer, gastritis and hyperacidity, also known as heartburn caused by the presence of excess gas in the stomach. A 5 ml teaspoonful of Maalox regular strength liquid contains 200 mg of aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide which are antacids, and 200 mg of simethicone. A 5 ml teaspoonful of Maalox maximum strength liquid has 400 mg of aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide and 40 mg of simethicone. One tablet of Maalox regular strength contains 600 mg of calcium carbonate, and one tablet of Maalox maximum strength contains 1000 mg of calcium carbonate and 60 mg of simethicone.

    Precautions

    • Maalox should not be administered to anyone who is severely ill or experiencing kidney failure, hypermagnesemia, or elevated levels of magnesium, or alkalosis. In addition, aluminum salts can cause constipation, and antacids may reduce the body's ability to absorb iron and tetracyclines. In people with low phosphorus diets, Maalox may induce phosphorus deficiency.

    Overdose Symptoms and Treatment

    • The most common symptom of Maalox overdose in users with normal health is diarrhea. People suffering from kidney failure may manifest symptoms of magnesium intoxication that include drowsiness, dry mouth, stupor and respiratory depression. In the event of an overdose, users should have their stomachs pumped, drink castor oil or use another laxative that doesn't contain magnesium. In patients with kidney failure, Maalox overdoes should be treated with the intravenous administration of calcium gluconate.

    Dosage

    • Adults and children 12 years and older using Maalox regular strength and maximum strength liquid, should take 2 to 4 teaspoonfuls four times a day or as directed by a physician. No more than 16 teaspoonfuls should be taken within a 24-hour period, nor should the medicine be taken for more than two weeks. Children under 12 should consult a physician. When using Maalox chewables, adults and children 12 years and older should chew 1 to 2 tablets as symptoms occur or as directed by a doctor and should discontinue use within 2 weeks.

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