Maalox: Constipation Or Diarrhea?

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Maalox is a medication used to treat sudden diarrhoea, including traveller's diarrhoea, by slowing down the movement of the gut, reducing the number of bowel movements, and making stools less watery. It is also used to treat ongoing diarrhoea in people with inflammatory bowel disease. The medication comes in the form of chewable tablets or rapidly dissolving tablets and is typically taken after each loose stool. While Maalox is effective in treating diarrhoea, it is important to note that it treats only the symptoms and not the underlying cause, such as an infection. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a doctor to determine the cause of the diarrhoea and receive appropriate treatment.

Characteristics Values
What is Maalox used for? Maalox is used to treat sudden diarrhea, including traveler's diarrhea. It is also used to treat ongoing diarrhea in people with inflammatory bowel disease.
How does Maalox work? Maalox works by slowing down the movement of the gut, decreasing the number of bowel movements, and making the stool less watery.
How to take Maalox Maalox can be taken as a chewable tablet or a rapidly dissolving tablet. It is usually taken after each loose stool or as directed by a doctor.
Side effects Some possible side effects of Maalox include dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness, constipation, and dark tongue.
Precautions Maalox should not be used in children younger than 2 years old due to an increased risk of side effects. It should also be used with caution in older adults and pregnant women.

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Maalox is an antacid that treats indigestion and acid reflux

Maalox is an over-the-counter antacid medication that can be used to treat indigestion and acid reflux. It is typically used to relieve heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach. It is available in the form of chewable tablets, tablets, and a suspension (liquid) that can be taken by mouth. The active ingredient in Maalox Total Relief is bismuth subsalicylate, which can cause some unwanted side effects. These may include a dark tongue and/or grayish-black stools, constipation, diarrhoea, dizziness, nausea, and stomach pain.

Maalox is also available as an anti-diarrheal medication, which works by slowing down the movement of the gut, thereby decreasing the number of bowel movements and making the stool less watery. This form of Maalox contains the active ingredient loperamide, which treats the symptoms of sudden diarrhoea, including traveller's diarrhoea, and not the cause. It is important to note that Maalox Anti-Diarrheal should not be used by children under 2 years of age due to an increased risk of side effects.

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It can be used to treat sudden diarrhoea by slowing down gut movement

Maalox is an effective medication for treating sudden diarrhoea. It works by slowing down the movement of the gut, which in turn decreases the number of bowel movements and makes stools less watery. This medication is particularly useful for those suffering from traveller's diarrhoea, as well as those with ongoing diarrhoea caused by inflammatory bowel disease.

Maalox is available in the form of a tablet, which should be taken by mouth, usually after each loose stool, or as directed by a doctor. The dosage is based on the condition and response to treatment, and it is important to follow the directions on the product package or prescription label. For children, the dosage is also based on age and weight.

It is important to note that Maalox only treats the symptoms of diarrhoea, not the cause. Therefore, it is crucial to determine the underlying cause of the diarrhoea and treat it accordingly. Diarrhoea can lead to dehydration, so it is essential to drink plenty of fluids and replace lost minerals (electrolytes). If diarrhoea persists for more than two days, or if new symptoms develop, it is important to seek medical advice.

While Maalox is an effective treatment for diarrhoea, it can also cause some side effects, such as dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness, and constipation. These side effects are typically mild and do not require medical attention unless they persist or worsen. However, in rare cases, more serious side effects may occur, such as severe constipation, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain. If any of these serious side effects develop, it is important to stop taking Maalox and seek immediate medical help.

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Maalox can also treat ongoing diarrhoea in people with inflammatory bowel disease

Maalox is an anti-diarrheal medication that can be used to treat sudden and ongoing diarrhoea. It is available in tablet and liquid form. The medication works by slowing down gut movement, reducing the number of bowel movements, and making stools less watery. This is particularly helpful for people with inflammatory bowel disease who experience ongoing diarrhoea.

The generic name for Maalox Anti-Diarrheal Tablets is loperamide. It is typically taken by mouth after each loose stool, with the dosage based on an individual's condition and response to treatment. It is important to note that Maalox treats only the symptoms of diarrhoea and not the underlying cause, which should be determined by a doctor.

Maalox Total Relief, on the other hand, is a liquid medication containing bismuth subsalicylate as its active ingredient. It is used to treat diarrhoea, upset stomach, nausea, heartburn, and gas. Bismuth subsalicylate is chemically related to aspirin and may cause similar adverse effects such as bleeding. It is not suitable for individuals with a history of gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding disorders.

Maalox's traditional liquid antacid products, such as Maalox Advanced Regular Strength and Maalox Advanced Maximum Strength, contain aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone. These products are used to relieve acid indigestion, heartburn, sour stomach, upset stomach, and bloating.

It is important to carefully read the labels, active ingredients, uses, and warnings of all Maalox products before use and to consult a healthcare professional if unsure about which product to use.

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It is available as chewable tablets, rapidly dissolving tablets, and liquid suspensions

Maalox is available in three different forms: chewable tablets, rapidly dissolving tablets, and liquid suspensions. Each form has specific usage instructions that should be carefully followed for optimal results and to avoid potential side effects.

The chewable tablets should be thoroughly chewed before swallowing, followed by a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 millilitres). This form of Maalox is convenient for those who prefer a more palatable and easily consumable option.

The rapidly dissolving tablets are designed for individuals who find swallowing tablets challenging. To use, dry your hands before opening the blister pack and carefully remove the tablet. Place the tablet on your tongue and let it dissolve completely before swallowing. Ensure you do not push the tablet through the blister pack or attempt to break it before placing it on your tongue.

The liquid form of Maalox is available as a suspension. Before each dose, shake the bottle well, and if desired, it can be mixed with a small amount of water. The liquid form is ideal for those who want a flexible dosing option and find swallowing tablets difficult.

Regardless of the form chosen, it is important to follow the directions on the product package or consult a doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice. Maalox is generally well-tolerated, but it is important to be aware of potential side effects, such as constipation, diarrhoea, or headaches, and to seek medical advice if these persist or worsen.

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Possible side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, and constipation

Maalox is a medication used to treat sudden diarrhoea, including traveller's diarrhoea. It is also used to reduce discharge in patients who have undergone an ileostomy and to treat ongoing diarrhoea in people with inflammatory bowel disease. While Maalox is an effective anti-diarrhoeal medication, it may cause some side effects, including dizziness, drowsiness, and constipation.

Dizziness is a common side effect of Maalox, and it can be exacerbated by the use of alcohol or marijuana. It is important to avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until the dizziness subsides.

Another possible side effect of Maalox is drowsiness, especially in children. This can be managed by adjusting the dosage or timing of the medication. It is important to follow the directions provided by your doctor or the product package to minimise this side effect.

Constipation is a less common but severe side effect of Maalox. If you experience constipation while taking Maalox, it is important to consult your doctor promptly. They may recommend adjusting the dosage or provide guidance on managing constipation.

While Maalox is generally well-tolerated, it is always advisable to be aware of potential side effects and consult your doctor if any concerns arise. Additionally, it is important to follow the directions for use and not exceed the recommended dosage to minimise the risk of side effects.

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Frequently asked questions

Maalox is used to treat sudden diarrhoea and slow down the movement of the gut, decreasing the number of bowel movements. It can also be used to treat ongoing diarrhoea in people with inflammatory bowel disease.

Maalox is an anti-diarrheal medication that contains the active ingredient bismuth subsalicylate. It is available in the form of oral capsules, liquid-filled tablets, chewable tablets, and an oral suspension.

Some common side effects of Maalox include a dark tongue, grey-black stools, constipation, dizziness, nausea, and stomach pain.

It is important to read the directions on the product package or prescription label before taking Maalox. Adults should not exceed 8 milligrams in 24 hours for self-treatment or 16 milligrams in 24 hours under a doctor's direction. It is also important to maintain adequate hydration and consult a doctor if diarrhoea persists or worsens.

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