Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate

Generic name: aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate [ a-LOO-mi-num-HYE-drox-IDE-AND-mag-NEE-zee-um-KAR-bo-nate ]
Brand names: Acid Gone, Acid Gone Extra Strength, Gaviscon Extra Strength, Gaviscon Regular Strength, Genaton
Dosage forms: oral suspension (254 mg-237.5 mg/5 mL; 95 mg-358 mg/15 mL), oral tablet, chewable (160 mg-105 mg)
Drug class: Antacids

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Jun 21, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate?

Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate are antacids that can lower the acidity of stomach acid.

Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate is a combination medicine that is used to treat heartburn, acid indigestion, sour stomach, or upset stomach.

Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate side effects

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects may include diarrhea.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate is safe to use if:

• you have a peptic ulcer; or

• you are on a low-salt diet.

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How should I take aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.

Shake the oral suspension (liquid) before you measure a dose. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).

You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it. Then drink about 4 ounces of water or other liquid.

Do not take more than 16 chewable tablets in 24 hours.

Do not take more than 8 tablespoonfuls of "regular strength" liquid or 16 teaspoonfuls of "extra strength" liquid in 24 hours

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if you have acid indigestion more than 2 times per week.

Do not take this medicine for longer than 2 weeks unless your doctor tells you to.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate dosing information

Usual Adult Dose for Dyspepsia:

ORAL SUSPENSION:
Aluminum hydroxide 95 mg-magnesium carbonate 358 mg/15 mL: 15 to 30 mL orally up to 4 times a day after meals and at bedtime as needed or as directed
-Maximum dose: 120 mL/day

Aluminum hydroxide 254 mg-magnesium carbonate 237.5 mg/5 mL: 10 to 20 mL orally up to 4 times a day after meals and at bedtime as needed or as directed
-Maximum dose: 80 mL/day

TABLETS:
Aluminum hydroxide 160 mg-magnesium carbonate 105 mg: 2 to 4 tablets orally up to 4 times a day after meals and at bedtime as needed or as directed
-Maximum dose: 16 tablets/day

Duration of therapy: Up to 2 weeks

Comment: Patients should avoid swallowing tablets whole.

Uses:
-Relief of acid indigestion, heartburn, or sour stomach
-Relief of upset stomach associated with acid indigestion, heartburn, or sour stomach

Usual Pediatric Dose for Dyspepsia:

12 years and older:
ORAL SUSPENSION:
Aluminum hydroxide 95 mg-magnesium carbonate 358 mg/15 mL: 15 to 30 mL orally up to 4 times a day after meals and at bedtime as needed or as directed
-Maximum dose: 120 mL/day

Aluminum hydroxide 254 mg-magnesium carbonate 237.5 mg/5 mL: 10 to 20 mL orally up to 4 times a day after meals and at bedtime as needed or as directed
-Maximum dose: 80 mL/day

Uses:
-Relief of acid indigestion, heartburn, or sour stomach
-Relief of upset stomach associated with acid indigestion, heartburn, or sour stomach

What happens if I miss a dose?

Since aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

What should I avoid while taking aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before taking aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate if you take other medicines regularly. Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate can make it harder for your body to absorb other medicines you take by mouth.

What other drugs will affect aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate?

Other drugs may affect aluminum hydroxide and magnesium carbonate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.

Further information

Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

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