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Milk of magnesia, also known by the generic name magnesium hydroxide, is a medicine that is used as a hydrating laxative
and an antacid. It is not a dairy product, but rather a milky-white
liquid that is made from magnesium hydroxide, purified water, and sodium
hypochlorite. This medicine usually relieves uncomfortable
gastrointestinal symptoms within 30 minutes and constipation within six
hours.Treatment of Stomach Discomfort
Magnesium hydroxide is an alkaline suspension, which means that it is
able to neutralize acids. When a patient swallows this medicine, the
hydroxide ions in it react with the hydrogen
ions in stomach acid, transforming both into water. This makes milk of
magnesia effective in fighting excess stomach acid, which can cause
indigestion, heartburn, and stomach ulcers. When used as an antacid, the usual adult dose is from 0.02 – 0.05 oz (500 mg to 1,500 mg).Treatment of Constipation
The magnesium in milk of magnesia is what makes it an effective
laxative. The mineral ions draw water into the intestinal tract from the
surrounding body tissues. This extra water softens and increases the
volume of feces, which stimulates the nerves in the intestines and
causes a bowel movement. For the treatment of constipation, an adult
dose is between 0.07 – 0.18 oz (2,000 mg and 5,000 mg).
Other Uses
Many people use this product in a number of off-label ways, including as a topical treatment for dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, acne,
and other skin conditions. It reportedly can help reduce body odor as
well. There are few if any scientific studies that support these claims,
but using milk of magnesia on the skin is unlikely to cause any serious
side effects in most people.Precautions
Milk of magnesia can react with certain antibiotics, and may be harmful to fetuses or newborns. Patients who are taking antibiotics, or who are pregnant or nursing, need to consult with a medical professional before taking this type of medicine. As with any other medication, milk of magnesia does occasionally produce side effects, including weakness, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Most patients tolerate it well, so those with severe side effects should be sure to contact a healthcare provider. All patients should only use magnesium hydroxide for up to one week, unless otherwise instructed by a medical professional.Patients with severe or chronic kidney disease are typically advised to limit their intake of magnesium, so they should only use milk of magnesia under the orders of a healthcare provider who is familiar with the condition. Healthy kidneys remove this mineral from the body quickly while unhealthy kidneys may not be able to effectively do so. This could lead to toxic levels in the blood, a condition called hypermagnesemia.
Discovery
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| Sir James Murray |