Magaldrate (Antacid) (By mouth)

Introduction

Magaldrate (MAG-al-drate)

Treats indigestion, heartburn, and peptic ulcers.

Brand Name(s)

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

How to Use This Medicine

Tablet, Chewable Tablet, Liquid

• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often. Always follow dose instructions on the medicine label when taking this medicine without your doctor's advice.
• Take this medicine between meals and at bedtime.
• Shake the oral liquid well before each use.
• Chew the chewable tablet before swallowing.
• If you are being treated for peptic ulcer, keep taking the antacid for as long as your doctor tells you to.

If a dose is missed:

• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for your next regular dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine

• Store at room temperature away from heat, direct light, and moisture. Do not freeze.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• You should not use magaldrate-containing antacids within 1 to 2 hours before or after taking other medicines unless you talk with your doctor first.
• You should not use this medicine with tetracycline antibiotics.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.
• Talk with your doctor before taking antacids if you have heart disease, kidney disease, high blood pressure, liver disease, severe stomach pains or diarrhea.
• You should not use certain brands of this medicine if you have kidney disease or are on dialysis. Some brands contain ingredients that could be harmful if your kidneys are not working properly. Always ask your health caregiver what specific brands of this medicine will work best for you.
• Unless you are taking antacids for peptic ulcer, you should not use continually for more than 2 weeks.
• Antacids may contain large amounts of sodium.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Dizziness
• Irregular heartbeat
• Nausea or vomiting
• Excessive weakness or tiredness
• Severe constipation
• Ankle swelling
• Bone pain
• Going to the bathroom (urinating) more often
• Changes in mood, confusion
• Headache that does not go away

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Mild constipation
• Diarrhea
• Unpleasant or chalky taste
• Stomach cramps or nausea
• White colored stools
• Increased thirst
• Appetite loss

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088