Milk Of Magnesia: Cramping Side Effect?

Milk of magnesia is a saline laxative that can be used to treat constipation. It works by drawing water into the bowel, which helps to soften stool and stimulate the bowel. It can also be used to treat indigestion and heartburn. While milk of magnesia is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects such as electrolyte imbalances and flushing. One of the main side effects of taking milk of magnesia or any laxative is diarrhoea. Does it also cause cramping?

Milk of magnesia is a saline laxative

Milk of magnesia, or magnesium hydroxide, is a saline laxative that can be purchased over the counter to treat occasional constipation. It is not intended to be a long-term treatment for constipation.

Saline laxatives work by drawing water into the bowels from the surrounding tissue. This helps to loosen stool, making it easier to pass. Milk of magnesia can also be used to treat symptoms caused by too much stomach acid, such as heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach. It does this by reducing stomach acid.

Milk of magnesia is available in tablet or liquid form. It should be taken with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 millilitres) and is usually taken at bedtime. The dosage varies depending on age and the reason for taking the medication. For example, adults treating constipation with the original version of milk of magnesia can take 30-60 ml, while children aged 6-11 can take 15-30 ml. It is recommended that children under 6 years old only take milk of magnesia under the recommendation of a doctor.

It is important to note that milk of magnesia can interfere with the absorption of other medications. Therefore, it is advised to wait 2 hours before or after taking other medications when using milk of magnesia. Additionally, those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on a magnesium-restricted diet should consult a doctor before taking milk of magnesia.

It can be used to treat indigestion and heartburn

Milk of magnesia can be used to treat indigestion and heartburn. It is an alkaline mineral, which means it can neutralise stomach acid and reduce burning feelings in the chest or throat, stomach cramping, and bloating. It is also an antacid, which works by lowering the amount of acid in the stomach.

Milk of magnesia is available as a regular-strength liquid or a concentrated liquid. The dosage for the concentrated liquid is lower than that of the regular-strength liquid. The liquid forms come with a dosing cap that shows millilitres (ml), which should be used to measure the dose. Do not use a household spoon, as this may result in an incorrect dosage.

Dosages for indigestion and heartburn are as follows:

• Regular-strength liquid: 5–15 ml
• Concentrated liquid: 5 ml

Generally, do not take more than 60 ml in a 24-hour period. Do not take more than the recommended amount.

Milk of magnesia should be taken with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. It is best to take the medication at bedtime, but it is also possible to take it at intervals during the day.

It is not suitable for treating chronic constipation

Milk of magnesia is not a suitable treatment for chronic constipation. It is a short-term, over-the-counter treatment for constipation, but it is not designed for long-term use.

Milk of magnesia is a saline laxative that draws water into the bowel, softening the stool and making it easier to pass. It typically works within 30 minutes to 6 hours of ingestion. However, it is not intended to be a long-term solution for constipation.

Extended use or overuse of milk of magnesia can lead to dependence on laxatives and ongoing constipation. It can also cause diarrhoea, dehydration, and mineral imbalances, such as high magnesium levels. Therefore, it is important to follow the recommended dosage and not exceed 60 ml in 24 hours.

If you are experiencing chronic constipation, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Chronic constipation can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, and a doctor can help determine an appropriate treatment plan.

It is not recommended for those with kidney disease

Milk of magnesia, also known as magnesium hydroxide, is a medication that can be used as an antacid or a saline laxative. It is available over the counter without a prescription, but it is not recommended for those with kidney disease.

Magnesium is an essential mineral for muscles, nerves, and bones, and it helps regulate blood sugar, blood pressure, and heart rhythm. However, people with kidney problems have difficulty tolerating excess magnesium, and it can lead to magnesium toxicity. This is why milk of magnesia is not recommended for those with kidney disease. Overdosing on milk of magnesia may overwhelm the system, and this is more likely to occur if a person takes more than the recommended dose or takes it for an extended period.

If you have kidney disease, it is important to avoid supplements, laxatives, or antacids that contain magnesium. This includes milk of magnesia. Speak with your doctor about alternative treatments for constipation, indigestion, or heartburn that are safe for people with kidney disease.

It is also important to note that milk of magnesia can interfere with a wide range of medications, including prescription drugs, supplements, and vitamins. It can stop the body from properly absorbing tablets, so it is crucial to consult your doctor before taking milk of magnesia if you are on any other medications.

It may cause side effects such as nausea and diarrhoea

Milk of magnesia is a saline laxative that can be purchased over the counter to treat constipation. It is also used as an antacid to relieve indigestion, sour stomach, and heartburn. It is made from magnesium hydroxide, which draws water into the intestines, softening the stool and increasing pressure on the intestines. This can stimulate the bowel and make it easier to have a bowel movement.

While milk of magnesia is generally well-tolerated, it can cause certain side effects, such as nausea and diarrhoea. These side effects are more likely to occur if a person takes more milk of magnesia than recommended or for an extended period. If you experience nausea or diarrhoea after taking milk of magnesia, you should stop taking it and consult a doctor.

Nausea and diarrhoea can be unpleasant and may lead to dehydration if not properly managed. It is important to drink plenty of fluids and seek medical attention if symptoms persist or become severe.

In addition to nausea and diarrhoea, milk of magnesia may also cause other side effects, such as flushing (a warm or tingly feeling) and electrolyte imbalances. In rare cases, an overdose of milk of magnesia can lead to magnesium hydroxide poisoning, resulting in symptoms such as a loss of reflexes in the tendons and an irregular heartbeat.

If you experience any side effects after taking milk of magnesia, it is important to consult a doctor or healthcare professional for advice and to determine if milk of magnesia is safe for you.

Frequently asked questions