Aluminium hydroxide

Aluminium hydroxide is an amphoteric, inorganic compound with the formula Al(OH)₃, found naturally as the mineral gibbsite and used widely in industry and medicine. Its medical uses include acting as an antacid (neutralizing stomach acid), phosphate binder in chronic kidney disease, and as an immunologic adjuvant in vaccines to enhance the response to antigens. Aluminium hydroxide is a white, water-insoluble powder that dissolves in acidic or alkaline media. It is not a biological receptor, enzyme, transporter, or a direct drug target, but rather an active ingredient or excipient with important roles in pharmaceutical formulations and vaccine technology. Its safety profile is generally favorable, but excessive systemic exposure, particularly in impaired renal function, can lead to toxicity.

Other names

AlhydrogelAluminium hydroxide gelAluminic hydroxideAlumina hydrateAluminium trihydroxideHydrated aluminaGibbsiteBayerite, doyleite, nordstranditeHydrargillite

Neutralizes gastric acid in the stomach (antacid action); Adsorbs phosphate in the gut (reduces absorption in renal failure); Stimulates immune response by acting as an adjuvant in vaccines (by promoting antigen presentation and immune activation)