Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia
Generic name: magnesium hydroxide [ mag-NEE-see-um-hye-DROCK-side ]
Brand names: Dulcolax Liquid, Milk of Magnesia, Pedia-Lax Chewable, Phillips Milk of Magnesia, Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia
Drug classes: Antacids, Laxatives
What is Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia?
Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral. Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia reduces stomach acid, and increases water in the intestines which may induce bowel movements.
Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia is used as a laxative to relieve occasional constipation.
Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia is also used as an antacid to relieve indigestion, sour stomach, and heartburn.
Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia 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.
Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia may cause serious side effects. Stop using Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia and call your doctor at once if you have:
-
no bowel movement after using the medicine as a laxative;
-
rectal bleeding; or
-
worsening symptoms.
Common side effects of Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia may include:
-
diarrhea; or
-
a decreased sense of taste.
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
Do not use Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia without a doctor's advice if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
Before taking this medicine
Do not use Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia without a doctor's advice if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia is safe to use if:
-
you have kidney disease;
-
you are on a low-magnesium diet; or
-
you have a sudden change in bowel habits that has been ongoing for longer than 2 weeks.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How should I take Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia?
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
You may need to shake the oral suspension before each use.
You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.
Take this medicine with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
When taken as a laxative, Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia should produce a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours.
Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this medicine.
Do not use Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia for longer than 7 days without medical advice.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Related/similar drugs
omeprazole, famotidine, MiraLAX, bisacodyl, docusate, lactulose, Colace, ranitidine, senna, Pepcid
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia 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.
Overdose symptoms may include severe diarrhea, muscle weakness, shortness of breath, and little or no urination.
What should I avoid while taking Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
What other drugs will affect Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia?
Other drugs may affect Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia, 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.
More about Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia (magnesium hydroxide)
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Latest FDA alerts (2)
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Drug class: antacids
- Breastfeeding
Patient resources
Other brands
Milk of Magnesia, Phillips' Milk of Magnesia, Dulcolax Milk of Magnesia, Pedia-Lax Chewable Tablets
Other formulations
Related treatment guides
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.
Copyright 1996-2024 Cerner Multum, Inc. Version: 7.01.