Maalox tablets and suspension: instructions for use for adults and children. How to take Maalox - instructions for use Antacids Maalox

Maalox is one of the widely used antacids. This tool is characterized by a rapid achievement therapeutic effect. Its use allows you to quickly cope with pain and heartburn.

Protecting the mucosa from damaging effects, the drug allows you to create conditions for its regeneration. Conducted clinical researches show good tolerance this tool subject to the rules of its appointment and application.

In this article, we will consider why doctors prescribe Maalox, including instructions for use, analogues and prices for this drug in pharmacies. Real REVIEWS of people who have already used Maalox can be read in the comments.

Composition and form of release

Chewable tablets: round, flat-cylindrical, white color, with a chamfer and an engraving "Mx" (10 pieces in blisters, in a cardboard bundle 1, 2 or 4 blisters).

• The composition of one tablet of Maalox for chewing includes 400 mg of algeldrate and 400 mg of magnesium hydroxide. Additional substances: sorbitol, starch with sucrose, magnesium stearate, mannitol, sodium saccharinate, mint flavor, sucrose.

Clinico-pharmacological group: antacid drug.

What helps Maalox?

The drug Maalox is used to treat such pathologies as:

1. Reflux esophagitis.
2. Acute gastroduodenitis.
3. peptic ulcer and duodenum in the exacerbation phase.
4. Hernia of the esophageal opening of the diaphragm.
5. Chronic gastroduodenitis with normal or increased secretory function in the acute phase.
6. Dyspepsia resulting from the use of certain drugs, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and glucocorticosteroids (treatment and prevention).

Maalox also helps with discomfort or pain in the epigastric region, heartburn with errors in the diet and excessive consumption of alcohol, coffee and nicotine.

pharmachologic effect

Maalox is a complex drug with a complex of properties. The drug is like baking soda, promotes the neutralization of hydrochloric acid, reduces its concentration without a secondary increase in secretion.

This creates a protective layer on the gastric mucosa, which reduces the likelihood of irritating food. It stimulates the formation of bile, and promotes its excretion into the duodenum, which increases the efficiency of the digestive process and cleanses the liver of excess bile.

Due to the ability to adsorb substances, Maalox reduces the level of harmful substances accumulated in the intestines. The carminative properties of the drug help to get rid of intestinal gases.

Instructions for use

According to the instructions for use, Maalox tablets must be sucked or chewed thoroughly in the mouth, and only then swallowed. If saliva is produced a little, then after chewing or resorption, you can drink the pill with a few sips of clean non-carbonated water.

• For adults and adolescents over 15 years of age, the drug is prescribed 1-2 tablets. 3-4 times / day 1-2 hours after meals and at night.
• With occasional use, for example, with discomfort after errors in the diet, take 1-2 tablets. once.
• With reflux esophagitis, the drug is taken after a short period of time after a meal.
• The maximum frequency of admission is 6 times / day. Do not take more than 12 tablets / day.

Duration of admission should not exceed 2-3 months.

Contraindications

1. Alzheimer's disease;
2. Age of children under 12 due to lack of clinical trials;
3. Pregnancy period in the 1st trimester;
4. Increased individual sensitivity to the components of the drug;
5. Chronic renal failure;
6. Hypophosphatemia.

With caution, this drug is used in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy and among nursing mothers.

Side effects

During therapy, the following disorders may develop:

1. Gastrointestinal tract: infrequently - constipation, diarrhea;
2. Immune system: with an unknown frequency - hypersensitivity reactions, including itching, urticaria, anaphylactic reactions and angioedema;
3. Metabolism and nutrition: with an unknown frequency - hyperaluminemia, hypermagnesemia, hypophosphatemia.

Patients with concomitant renal insufficiency may develop thirst, decrease blood pressure and hyporeflexia.

Pregnancy and lactation

To date, no specific teratogenic effects have been identified when using Maalox during pregnancy, however, due to the lack of clinical experience with its use during pregnancy, the appointment is possible only if the potential benefit of therapy for the mother justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

When using the drug in accordance with the dosing regimen, the absorption of combinations of aluminum hydroxide and magnesium salts in the mother's body is limited, therefore Maalox is recognized as compatible with breastfeeding.

Analogues

Structural analogues for the active substance:

• Agiflux;
• Almagel;
• Almol;
• Alumag;
• Anacid forte;
• gastracid;
• Maalox mini;
• Rivolox.

Attention: the use of analogues must be agreed with the attending physician.

Prices

The average price of MAALOKS tablets in pharmacies (Moscow) is 250 rubles.

Terms of dispensing from pharmacies

The drug is approved for use as a means of OTC.

Maalox drug is a balanced combination of magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide, providing a high neutralizing ability and a protective effect. It has an antacid (reducing the acidity of the stomach), adsorbent (absorbing excess acid and gases) and enveloping effect, soothes pain in the upper digestive tract for several hours after ingestion. Acid neutralizing activity 1 maalox tablets is 18.5 meq of hydrochloric acid, 15 ml of suspension (1 sachet) - 40.5 meq.

Indications for use

Mode of application

Side effects

Contraindications

Release form

Storage conditions

Synonyms

main parameters

The drug Maalox is a medicine intended for the treatment of heartburn, belching and other symptoms of a number of diseases of the stomach and intestinal tract. The principle of action (and all its analogues) is to reduce the acidity of gastric juice and neutralize free hydrochloric acid. Due to the enveloping and adsorbing action, the drug improves the patient's well-being and is quite popular. It should only be used as directed and on the advice of a physician, although it is available over the counter.

Main active ingredients drugs are magnesium and aluminum hydroxides (algeldrate).

• chewable tablets (with and without sugar);
• glass bottles of 250 ml;
• dosed suspensions (sachets of 15 ml).

The tablets (both sweet and intended for diabetics) contain 400 mg of magnesium hydroxide and algeldrate. This is 2/3 of the recommended single dose, so sometimes it is taken one, and sometimes 2 tablets.

In 100 ml of suspension - 4 g of magnesium hydroxide and 3.5 g of algeldrate, in portion sachets - 600 mg and 525 mg, respectively. As auxiliary substances added to the preparation, aromatic substances, citric acid, sodium saccharinate and sucrose are used. They are needed to improve the taste of Maalox and simplify its intake by patients.

Due to the correspondence of one dose for an adult to the amount of active substances in sachets broken into portions, they are considered the best option to take medication. According to patient reviews, it is convenient to measure the required amount of the drug for the liquid form. The tablets provide minimal overlap with the recommended dose and have the advantage of being compact. Several chewable tablets are easy to carry in your pocket and use on the road or at work.

Indications and contraindications

1. various types of ulcers (gastric and duodenal ulcers);
2. inflammation of the mucous membranes of the same organs;
3. heartburn and other temporary and permanent signs malnutrition, overdose of nicotine, alcohol and even coffee;
4. hiatal hernia.

Maalox should not be used to treat heartburn and other symptoms in patients suffering from:

• kidney problems;
• allergic reaction to one or more components of the drug;
• fructose intolerance;
• a form of dementia such as Alzheimer's disease.

Taking the medicine is undesirable, and, judging by some sources and reviews of doctors, it is completely prohibited for children under 15 years of age. It is recommended to use it with caution during pregnancy and lactation. It can be one of the reasons leading to the refusal of the drug for heartburn, and the passage of hemodialysis by patients with porphyria.

Dosage

The dose of one serving of the drug, the time of administration and the frequency depend on the form of release. At the same time, due to recommendations not to treat children under 15 years of age with the drug, its entire dosage is the same and relevant for any age. Although the instructions for the use of the drug in the form of tablets allow changing the portion size depending on the symptoms and the severity of the disease that caused them - from 1 to 2 pieces per dose.

Suspension in sachets

When dosing with Maalox sachets, take one serving (15 ml) no more than 6 times a day, depending on the state of health and the severity of the symptoms. Before use, the suspension is kneaded between the fingers, and then carefully chewed and swallowed. Reception time - 1-2 hours after eating and before bedtime. Periodicity is allowed to be violated when acute pain or heartburn - for example, with an ulcer, it is required to take 30 minutes before eating, and for reflux esophagitis - the same period after eating. However, it must not exceed daily allowance suspensions (90 ml).

Courses of therapy should not last more than 3 months. And if it is necessary to use the medicine once (heartburn caused by a specific cause, and not by a disease - overeating, exceeding the dose of ethanol taken, etc.), only 1-2 sachets of suspension are enough to solve the problem.

vials

The medicine is also available in liquid form - dark glass bottles. It is also required to dose it in 15 ml (1 tbsp. L.). The frequency of use, according to the instructions for use - up to 4 times a day. Reception time - 60-120 minutes before meals and at bedtime. The course of treatment is up to 3 months. Episodic use, required in the event of acute pain and heartburn from overeating or improper diet, allows only a single dose of 15 ml of the drug and its repetition if the symptoms return.

Tablets

Like a suspension, the tablet form of the drug does not require swallowing, but chewing or sucking. This increases the area of ​​the stomach covered by the active ingredients and protected from heartburn and other symptoms. Doctors prescribe this medicine 4-6 times a day, 1-2 tablets. Approximate time - within 1-2 hours after eating. The daily dosage should not exceed 12 tablets, and the maximum period of therapy is 3 months. If during this time it was not possible to achieve the desired result, the drug is replaced with a more effective one. A single dose with the appearance of passing, but still requiring immediate action, involves taking up to two tablets.

Overdose

Exceeding the recommended daily or single dose of the drug can lead to serious consequences - the appearance of abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting. In patients at risk (renal insufficiency and elderly age) its constant use can increase the obstruction and obstruction of the intestine. In high doses medicinal product can adversely affect even the health of people who have only a predisposition to the development of phosphate deficiency.

If symptoms of an overdose appear, you should immediately stop taking the medication and wait until magnesium and aluminum are excreted along with the urine. In addition, it is necessary to carry out forced diuresis by taking diuretics. And patients with kidney disease undergo peritoneal dialysis and hemodialysis to purify the blood.

Side effects

There are few side effects when observing the correct dosage of Maalox, according to reviews and studies. In some cases the immune system the patient may react with itching, swelling and hives. And long-term use of the maximum doses of the drug, even within the recommended values, can lead to the development of hypermagnesemia and hyperaluminemia (an excess of magnesium and aluminum in the body) and even hypophosphatemia (lack of phosphorus), which causes bone tissue destruction. With kidney disease, patients may develop encephalopathy, dementia, and microcytic anemia. Among other doctors noted in the reviews side effects caused by the drug and requiring immediate discontinuation of its use, it is worth noting the decrease in body weight, the appearance of difficulties with swallowing and previously unrevealed problems with digestion.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

Studies have not shown any negative effects from the influence of the drug on pregnant women using it. However, the available data are insufficient to make a statement about total absence danger to expectant mothers and children. Therefore, during pregnancy, Maalox is used only in cases where the benefits of such treatment outweigh the possible risk to the child.

Compatibility with other drugs

The drug is able to interact with a number of certain medications, also used orally. At the same time, the instructions for use require taking into account the need to maintain a non-standard break (more than 2 hours) between taking Maalox and such medicines:

• acetylsalicylic acid and salicylates;
• anti-tuberculosis drugs (isoniazid and ethambutol);
• metoprolol;
• atenolol;
• preparations containing citrates;
• quinidine;
• kayexalata;
• ketoconazole;
• penicillinamine;
• H2 receptor blockers;
• phosphorus supplements.

If the interval is not maintained, the following side effects may occur:

1. the simultaneous use of the drug together with quinidine causes an increase in the serum concentration of the latter and an overdose. The result can be heart problems;
2. when using the drug with kayexalate, it is necessary to ensure the recommended two-hour break, since their interaction not only reduces the efficiency of potassium binding, but also causes metabolic alkalosis in patients with kidney problems and intestinal obstruction;
3. when used as medicinal product salicylates may interfere with the process of removing drugs from the body with the help of urine;
4. for simultaneous administration with citrates, there is a danger of increasing the level of aluminum in the body.

special instructions

In the instructions for use of the drug, there are a number of instructions that should be followed in the treatment process:

• only a doctor should prescribe even a single dose of medication for pregnant women and patients at risk. The remaining categories of patients can independently decide on a single use of a tablet or suspension, referring to a specialist only if it is necessary to prescribe long-term treatment;
• if the patient's symptoms persist 10 days after the start of the course of therapy, therapeutic measures are stopped, starting new ones and changing the drug;
• between the use of the drug and any other medications, should take at least 1.5–2 hours;
• due to the fact that the drug causes a lack of phosphorus in the body, its use should be accompanied by the addition of food containing phosphates to the patient's diet - primarily fish and seafood, cheese, egg yolk and liver.

Vacation and storage

The medicine in any of the produced forms is sold without a special prescription from a doctor. Store it, according to the instructions for use, should be in a place inaccessible to sunlight and children. The optimum storage temperature is 25 degrees. The shelf life of the drug is 36 months.

Maalox is a very effective antacid. It is prescribed for hypersecretion of gastric juice to neutralize hydrochloric acid and pepsin. The medicine helps to get rid of heartburn and other symptoms of dyspepsia.

Active substances and dosage form

Suspension Maalox is a white liquid light yellow with a mint scent. 100 ml contains 4 g of magnesium hydroxide and 3.5 g of algedate. The medicine is supplied in dark bottles of 250 ml, as well as in foil bags of 15 ml, designed for 1 dose.

Maalox mini with the smell of blackcurrant or lemon is also packaged in bags. In 1 dose (4.3 ml) - 460 mg of algedate and 400 mg of magnesium hydroxide.

Pharmacological properties

The active substances neutralize free hydrochloric acid without provoking a secondary increase in its secretion in parietal cells. A decrease in the acidity of the medium contributes to a decrease in the activity of the main proteolytic enzyme - pepsin. The drug is also characterized by enveloping and adsorbing properties; it provides protection of the mucous membrane of the upper gastrointestinal tract from ulcerogenic factors.

Active components act locally; they are not absorbed into the systemic circulation after application in the recommended volumes.

Indications

The drug is indicated for the following diseases GIT:

• gastroduodenitis;
• GERD();
• erosion of the esophagus;
• relapses and 12 duodenal ulcer.

Antacid local action in liquid form, it is advisable to drink with dyspeptic disorders (discomfort and gastralgia) associated with the consumption of foods and drinks that stimulate the secretion of HCl (including alcohol) or the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and.

Contraindications

The drug is not prescribed to patients who have found intolerance to its active or auxiliary components in order to avoid the development of allergic reactions.

Other contraindications:

• hypophosphatemia;
• severe renal dysfunction;
• fructose intolerance (one of the ingredients is sorbitol).

Children and adolescents under 15 years of age are not prescribed drugs due to a lack of experience in clinical use in pediatric practice.

Dosing regimen

Before use, the suspension of Maalox and Maalox mini must be mixed until smooth. To do this, the vial is vigorously shaken for 10-15 seconds, and single-use packages are thoroughly kneaded before opening.

Suspension from vials drink 1 tbsp. l. (corresponding to 15 ml). The contents of the sachets do not need to be further diluted with water.

Maalox is taken 1-2 hours after meals and in the evening before bedtime, as well as additionally as needed (with the appearance of stomach pain, sour eructation and heartburn). Up to 90 ml can be taken per day, which corresponds to 6 packets.

Maalox mini drink 1-2 sachets. If heartburn does not go away, a second dose is allowed after 2 hours. The maximum daily dose is 12 single packs (with kidney dysfunction - no more than 6-8).

With a diagnosed gastric ulcer, drugs should be drunk half an hour before meals, and with GERD - after 30-60 minutes. after eating.

The maximum duration of course therapy is 3 months.

Side effects

Patients who do not exceed prescribed dosages usually tolerate antacid therapy without any complications. In case of hypersensitivity to the active and auxiliary components of drugs, it is not excluded allergic reactions as skin rashes, bronchospasm and angioedema. Possible in severe cases.

Sometimes intestinal disorders (or) are noted. Prolonged use of large doses may cause an increase in the level of aluminum and magnesium in the blood.

If little phosphate is supplied with food, after prolonged treatment, hypophosphatemia may develop, which can lead to hypercalciuria, as well as structural disorders in bone tissue - and osteomalacia.

Overdose

Against the background of a significant excess of the prescribed single and daily dosages of the Maalox suspension, it may open, diarrhea and abdominal pain may appear. Salts of aluminum and magnesium are excreted by the kidneys, therefore, in case of an overdose, forced diuresis is indicated. With hypovolemia, it is necessary to replenish fluid deficiency and normalize the electrolyte balance.

Patients with severe renal dysfunction require hardware-assisted blood purification (hemodialysis).

Interaction with other drugs

Maalox slows down absorption (Dexamethasone and Prednisolone), penicillin series(Penicillamine) and a group of fluoroquinolones (including Tsiprolet), antipsychotics, sodium fluoride and.

With the parallel use of Quinidine, its concentration in the blood increases and the likelihood of an overdose increases.

In order to avoid unwanted interaction between taking an antacid and other drugs, it is necessary to maintain a gap of 2 hours. The time interval between the use of an antacid and fluoroquinolones should be at least 4 hours.

Suspension Maalox and Maalox mini during pregnancy and lactation

During clinical trials, magnesium algedate and hydroxide did not show embryotoxic, mutagenic and teratogenic properties, but due to the lack of data indicating the complete safety of the antacid for the fetus, women during the gestation period should take it with caution and only as directed by their doctor.

During breastfeeding medication is allowed.

Additional instructions

With prolonged course therapy, it is recommended to make adjustments to the diet; more products containing phosphorus salts should be included in it.

Algedrate can cause constipation, and in elderly people with weakened peristalsis, provoke intestinal obstruction.

Suspension Maalox and Maalox mini do not affect the speed of psychomotor reactions, therefore, during the treatment period, driving is allowed.

If during course therapy the symptoms do not stop within 10 days or more, or the dynamics of the disease is negative, an additional examination and adjustments to the treatment regimen are required.

Against the background of violations of the excretory function of the kidneys, encephalopathy may develop. At kidney failure easy and medium degree it is important to avoid long-term use.

Suspension and Maalox tablets from what they help

Maalox has an antacid, enveloping and adsorbing effect. It should also be noted its choleretic effect, as well as positive influence on the process of formation stool and the act of defecation.

The main active ingredients in the composition of the drug Maalox are magnesium hydroxide, as well as algeldrate, thanks to which the drug quickly neutralizes the acid in the stomach cavity, and also protects the mucous membrane of this organ of the digestive canal. All this reduces the activity and aggressiveness of gastric juice, reduces the production of hydrochloric acid.

As for the indications for taking Maalox medication, these include:

• Peptic ulcer of the stomach or duodenum;
• Catarrhal and erosive gastritis;
• Exacerbation of chronic gastroduodenitis;
• Gastroesophageal reflux, which usually manifests itself in the form of heartburn;
• Diaphragmatic hernia, which enters the wall of the esophagus;
• Painful sensations, as well as discomfort in the epigastric region;
• Violations in the diet, as a result of which heartburn appears;
• Frequent intake of alcohol, strong tea and coffee, smoking.

Maalox contraindications for use

There are very few contraindications for taking Maalox medication.

It is usually not prescribed for:

• Violation of renal and hepatic function;
• With Alzheimer's disease;
• Decrease in the amount of phosphorus in the blood plasma;
• If there is hypersensitivity to its components;
• During pregnancy, as well as during breastfeeding.

Children under the age of twelve should be especially careful when taking Maalox.

How and how much to take Maalox

The medicine is produced in tablet form. It is usually taken one hour after eating or when pains appear in the epigastric region. If you are worried about heartburn, then drink this medicine follows almost immediately after the end of the meal.

These tablets should be sucked or chewed well, not swallowed whole. The multiplicity of reception - about three - a maximum of four times a day, one - two tablets at a time.

A maximum of twelve tablets can be taken per day. It must be said that the course of therapy with Maalox should not exceed three months in a row.

A suspension of this drug is also taken three times a day in a volume of 15 milliliters per dose. Before taking the suspension, be sure to shake or knead the contents of the sachet well with your fingers.

It is important to say that the nuances of taking this remedy should be discussed with the attending physician, who individually approaches each patient and a separate clinical case.

Side effects of Maalox

It should be noted right away that Maalox almost never leads to side effects, since it is very well tolerated by all groups of patients. But still, the probability of their occurrence, although small, but exists. To possible side effects should include:

• Constipation;
• Nausea up to vomiting reactions;
• Taste perception disorders.

If you take Maalox for a long time, there may be impaired urination by the kidneys, a decrease in the concentration of calcium and phosphorus in the blood. There may also be signs of encephalopathy, osteoporosis. Rare cases of exacerbation of Alzheimer's disease, as well as diseases of the musculoskeletal system, have been noted.