Calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide

Generic name: calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide [ KAL-see-um-KAR-bo-nate-and-mag-NEE-zee-um-hye-DROX-ide ]
Brand names: Rolaids, Rolaids Ultra Strength, Mi-Acid Double Strength, Mylanta Supreme, Fast Acting Mylanta, ... show all 8 brands Mylanta Ultra, Mylanta Gelcap, Rolaids Extra Strength
Dosage form: oral tablet, chewable (1000 mg-200 mg; 550 mg-110 mg)
Drug class: Antacids

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Dec 22, 2023. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide?

Calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide is a combination antacid used to treat indigestion, upset stomach, and heartburn.

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

Calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide 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.

Stop using calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide and call your doctor at once if you have symptoms of high calcium or magnesium levels in your blood:

• nausea, vomiting, constipation;

• increased thirst or urination;

• muscle weakness, bone pain;

• confusion, weakness, feeling tired;

• trouble breathing; or

• slow heart rate, feeling light-headed.

Common side effects of calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide may include:

• diarrhea;

• constipation; or

• upset stomach.

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 the label and package. Use exactly as directed.

Before taking this medicine

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide if you have health problems or use other medications.

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

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

How should I use calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide?

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

You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.

Do not use calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide for longer than 14 days in a row without medical advice. Do not use more than 7 tablets in a 24-hour period.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide is used when needed and does not have a daily dosing schedule.

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 using calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide?

Avoid taking other medications at the same time you use an antacid. Some antacids can make it harder for your body to absorb other medicines you take by mouth.

What other drugs will affect calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide?

Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide with any other medicines, especially:

• an antibiotic;

• heart or blood pressure medication;

• HIV or AIDS medications; or

• medication to treat osteoporosis or Paget's disease of bone.

This list is not complete and many other drugs may affect calcium carbonate and magnesium hydroxide. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Not all possible drug interactions are listed here.

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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