magnesium + aluminum antacids

Magnesium + aluminum antacids are combination drugs used to relieve symptoms from excess stomach acid, such as heartburn, indigestion, sour stomach, and bloating. They commonly contain aluminum hydroxide and a magnesium salt (often magnesium hydroxide or magnesium trisilicate). The mechanism of action involves neutralizing gastric acid via a chemical reaction, raising the pH and reducing irritation. Magnesium component may cause diarrhea, while the aluminum component may cause constipation; used together, these effects can balance each other. They do not inhibit acid secretion, but rather neutralize pre-existing stomach acid. Some products include simethicone for relief of gas and bloating. These antacids are primarily available as over-the-counter oral suspensions, tablets, or chewables. They are intended for short-term symptomatic relief, not for long-term management of acid-related disorders.[1][2][5][7][8]

Brand names

GavisconMaaloxMylanta

Other names

aluminum/magnesium antacidsaluminum hydroxide + magnesium hydroxidealuminum hydroxide/magnesium trisilicate