Antacids
Brand/Generic Drug Names
Amphojel/aluminum hydroxide, Tums/calcium carbonate, Riopan/magaldrate, Maalox/magnesium oxide, Soda Mint/sodium bicarbonate, Phosphaljel/aluminum phosphate, Rolaids/dihydroxyaluminum sodium carbonate, Phillips’ Milk of Magnesia/magnesium hydroxide (ok, so I didn't put your favorite in - sorry - there are ca. twelve gazillion OTC brands!)
decreased hyperacidity in peptic ulcer disease, reflux esophagitis, gastritis, hiatal hernia
basic compounds which neutralize gastric acidity and decrease rate of gastric emptying (aluminum, magnesium, calcium compounds)
magnesium or aluminum hypersensitivity
magnesium: renal insufficiency, pregnancy, lactation sodium content may be high; hypertension, congestive heart failure, low-sodium diet
Increased effect: quinidine, amphetamines, pseudoephedrine, levodopa, valproic acid, dicumarol Decreased effect: cimetidine, corticosteroids, ranitidine, iron salts, phenothiazines, phenytoin, digoxin, tetracyclines, ketoconazole, salicylates, isoniazid
aluminum: constipation, fecal impaction, bowel obstruction magnesium: diarrhea calcium: constipation, diarrhea Carbonates: alkalosis, belching, abdominal distention, flatulence, alkaluria, electrolyte disturbances, rebound hyperacidity, milk-alkali syndrome
Assess aggravating/alleviating factors Identify location, duration, characteristics of epigastric pain Assess gastrointestinal symptoms; if fever and severe abdominal pain are present, do not give Assess renal symptoms, urinary pH, electrolytes Administer with 8 oz glass of water Evaluate therapeutic response: decreased acidity and pain
August 06, 2002