How does it work?

Aluminium hydroxide is most commonly used as an antacid in a variety of preparations. It alters the acidity of the stomach's juices, by binding to excess acid. This decreases the acidity of the contents of the stomach which may in turn help to relieve the symptoms of ulcers, heartburn or dyspepsia. Aluminium hydroxide is also used in cases where there is too much phosphate in the blood, such as in individuals with renal failure. It does this by preventing further absorption of phosphate into the body. Aluminium binds to phosphate found in the gut. The body is unable to use it once it is attached to aluminium. The aluminium-phosphate complex is then passed out of the body along with the rest of the body's waste.

What is it used for?

Abnormally high acidity in the stomach (hyperacidity)

High phosphate blood levels (hyperphosphataemia)

Upset stomach characterised by stomach pain and burning, nausea and excess gas (dyspepsia)

Warning!

Serum phosphate levels should be monitored in all individuals receiving phosphate binders.

Not to be used in

Children

Life long inherited blood diseases which can cause a variety of symptoms, including mental health problems (porphyrias)

Low blood phosphate levels (hypophosphataemia)

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

The safety of this medicine during pregnancy has not been established. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

There is no information available regarding the safety of this medicine during breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Constipation

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

How can this medicine affect other medicines?

Antacids may affect the actions of other medication. To reduce this effect there should be a two hour gap between taking the antacid and other medication. This medication may reduce the effectiveness of tetracycline antibiotics such as doxycycline.

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