Maalox sells as an over-the-counter tablet or liquid antacid. Maalox may be effective for the relief of acid indigestion and heartburn. This antacid also may relieve additional symptoms of stomach discomfort and bloating. The active ingredients in Maalox include aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide and simethicone. These chemical agents help reduce stomach acidity that can lead to heartburn, according to Novartis Consumer Health. Maalox is sold in several strengths and children dosages.
Aluminium Hydroxide
Aluminum hydroxide, an antacid, treats heartburn, gastritis and peptic ulcers, according to the University of California at San Diego. This ingredient interacts with phosphorus, calcium and folic acid, causing lack of absorption of these important minerals. Aluminum may reduce the body's ability to absorb phosphorus but no antacid is recommended for daily use. Aluminum hydroxide can cause calcium loss in the body. Maalox advanced includes a calcium supplement to compensate for calcium loss. People taking antacids should take a folic acid supplement, notes the university. Novartis Consumer Health recommends that individuals eat slowly and watch what they eat to decrease symptoms of heartburn and contact their doctor if symptoms persist.
Magnesium Hydroxide
Magnesium hydroxide, an over-the counter antacid used for short-term symptoms of stomach discomfort, provides short-term treatment for constipation. It is important for individuals to read the label of each specific Maalox product to be certain that they are treating their symptoms adequately, notes the Food and Drug Administration consumer update. Maalox makes regular, extra strength and advanced formulas. These products contain different ingredients based on symptoms. Product confusion can cause unwanted side effects including diarrhea and constipation. Magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide inhibit the absorption of iron. Stomach acid is not necessary for iron absorption, notes the University of California, San Diego. The effects of the agents on iron uptake may be negligible.
Simethicone
Simethicone treats painful gas symptoms. Advanced Maalox formulas contain this ingredient. products. Drugs Information Online does not list specific medication interactions with simethicone but the website notes that some interactions may occur because of this agent's effect on stomach acids. It is not recommended that individuals eat prior to taking this medication. The university also indicates that tobacco and alcohol can decrease the efficacy of some antacid products. Simethicone has been tested in children and is not known to cause any adverse side effects, according to the Drug Information resource.
