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can taking milk of magnesia daily be harmful

by Prof. Luis Purdy Published 3 years ago Updated 3 years ago

People should not use milk of magnesia for more than 7 days at a time for constipation or 14 days at a time for other digestive issues. Ongoing symptoms can be a sign of a more serious gut health condition, so if the problem persists, a person should contact their doctor.

What are the side effects of milk of Magnesia?

The most common side effects of milk of magnesia are:

  • diarrhea
  • stomach cramps
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • skin flushing
  • drowsiness

What happens if you drink too much milk of Magnesia?

  • Hypermagnesemia – an electrolyte disturbance in which there is an abnormally elevated level of magnesium in the blood (especially in people with impaired renal function)
  • Kidney function damage
  • Renal failure
  • Anemia
  • Mineral and vitamin deficiencies, especially folic acid, iron and vitamin B12
  • Malabsorption due to the neutralization of the stomach acid

More items...

How much milk of Magnesia is considered overdose?

is one overdose of milk of magnesia (magnesium hydroxide) harmful? no harm: Your body will not react to this and it will cause no problems for you. milk of magnesia (magnesium hydroxide) question; how much do you use for children? 2.5 to 10 ml: The doses as above are for infants to 10 year old children.

How can milk of Magnesia help an upset stomach?

Milk of magnesia or magnesium hydroxide is laxative drug doctors prescribe for constipation, stomach upset, and indigestion . It is an osmotic laxative, meaning it draws water into the intestine, thereby softening the stool . You can consume the milk of magnesia during pregnancy upon a doctor’s advice . However, sometimes along with some ...

Is Milk of Magnesia safe?

Can kidney problems cause magnesium toxicity?

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What does milk of magnesia do to your body?

It is a laxative (osmotic-type) that is thought to work by drawing water into the intestines, an effect that helps to cause movement of the intestines. This medication is also used to treat symptoms caused by too much stomach acid such as heartburn, upset stomach, or indigestion.

Can milk of magnesia be habit forming?

Laxatives may be habit-forming and can harm your bowels if you use them too long or too often. If you are using this medicine without a prescription, follow the instructions on the medicine label. If you are using this medicine as a laxative, you must drink enough liquid.

How often can you take Phillips milk of magnesia?

Milk of Magnesia may be taken once a day preferably at bedtime, in divided doses, or as directed by a doctor. Recommended dose: Adults and children 12 years and older: 30 mL to 60 mL. Children 6 to 11 years: 15 mL to 30 mL.

How do you permanently cure chronic constipation?

They may recommend you:Eat more fiber. Pack your plate with lots of veggies, fruits, and whole grains and don't eat too many low-fiber foods like dairy and meat.Drink more water. Your digestive system needs water to help flush things out.Exercise. ... Take the time to go.

Who should not take milk of magnesia?

Before taking this medicine Ask a doctor or pharmacist if 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.

What is the difference between MiraLAX and milk of magnesia?

MiraLAX is used for short-term treatment of constipation and long-term treatment of chronic constipation. It's also used for bowel prep before colonoscopy. Milk of magnesia is used for short-term treatment of constipation. It's not currently recommended for long-term treatment of chronic constipation.

Can you take Phillips caplets daily?

For adults and children 12 years and older. Take 2 to 4 caplets daily, preferably all at bedtime, or individually throughout the day. Caplet(s) should be taken with a full glass (8 oz) of liquid. Do not exceed the recommended daily amount.

What Are Some Side Effects That I Need to Call My Doctor About Right away?

WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor o...

What Are Some Other Side Effects of This Drug?

All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help i...

For Healthcare Professionals

Applies to magnesium hydroxide: compounding powder, oral concentrate, oral suspension, oral tablet chewable

Should you eat before or after taking milk of magnesia for ... - Answers

Does Darvocet contribute to constipation? Yes. Started taking darvocet for upper back pain (spondylosis) about 2 months ago. Stopped because I thought there might be a connection.

Is it safe to use milk of magnesia once or sometimes twice a…

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Milk of Magnesia - is is safe to use milk magnesia every day.?

I have been preaching to everyone how important Magnesium is for the body, and that the American diet is deprived of Magnesium, I just went to my Grandmothers 100th birthday party and I was talking to my uncle about medical problems of family members and I got on the topic of how important Magnesium is and he said do you think Milk of Magnesia has it in it? not knowing for sure i said by the ...

Is Milk of Magnesia safe?

Milk of magnesia is quite safe and can be taken daily without problems by patients with occasional constipation, heartburn, or dyspepsia. The most common side effect is diarrhea, although this is the desired effect for patients with constipation.

Can kidney problems cause magnesium toxicity?

They should avoid supplements, laxatives or antacids that contain this mineral. Overdosing on magnesium may overwhelm the system and result in magnesium toxicity. This may be what happened to your father-in-law because of his milk of magnesia habit.

How often should I take milk of magnesia?

Correspondingly, how often can I take milk of magnesia? Milk of magnesia for other digestive issues Adults should take 5 – 15 ml at a time with water, and repeat up to 4 times per day as needed. They should not take more than 60 ml in any 24-hour period. When using milk of magnesia as an antacid, it may also have a laxative effect.

How long does it take for milk of Magnesia to work?

Beside above, how long does it take for milk of magnesia to work? six hours

How long does it take for Miralax to work?

Another difference between MiraLAX and milk of magnesia is how long they take to work. MiraLAX usually takes one to three days to cause a bowel movement. Milk of magnesia, on the other hand, usually causes a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours.

How does magnesium citrate work?

Magnesium citrate works by pulling more water into the intestines, which is called osmosis. When there is more water in the intestines, the stool becomes softer or even watery and is easier to pass.

Can you take MiraLax with polyethylene glycol?

If you use MiraLax too often or for a prolonged period of time, you could become dependent on laxatives. People who have or may have a bowel obstruction (blockage in the intestine) should not take MiraLax.

Is milk of magnesia safe?

Milk of magnesia is quite safe and can be taken daily without problems by patients with occasional constipation, heartburn, or dyspepsia. The most common side effect is diarrhea, although this is the desired effect for patients with constipation. Correspondingly, how often can I take milk of magnesia? Milk of magnesia for other digestive issues ...

Is milk of magnesium an antacid?

Magnesium Hydroxide BP 415 mg per 5 ml suspension. Oral Suspension. Milk of Magnesia is indicated as an antacid for the symptomatic relief of stomach discomfort, indigestion, hyperacidity, heartburn and flatulence; and as a laxative for constipation.

What does it mean when you have too much milk of magnesia?

Muscle Weakness. Dreamstime. Muscle weakness is a major sign that an individual have taken too much milk of magnesia. In other words, muscle weakness is a significant indication that individuals are dealing with abnormally high levels of magnesium in their body.

How long does it take for milk of magnesia to work?

It softens and moistens the stool. Most patients will have a normal bowel movement within six hours of taking a single dose of milk of magnesia.

Why does milk of magnesia make my mouth dry?

If they experience dry mouth when taking milk of magnesia, it is a sign that they are dehydrated. If dry mouth is mild, patients can likely continue taking milk of magnesia if they increase the amount of water they are drinking to compensate for the fluids they are losing.

Does milk of magnesia cause extreme thirst?

Dreamstime. Extreme thirst when individuals are taking milk of magnesia is another side effect that indicates they are dealing with dehydration. Unfortunately, extreme thirst often means that affected individuals will need to stop taking milk of magnesia, at least on a temporary basis.

Can milk of magnesia cause dizziness?

Patients who take milk of magnesia on a long-term basis or at doses larger than the recommended levels could experience lightheadedness and dizziness. Patients who feel lightheaded could faint, and they are at a higher risk for falls and injuries. During an episode of lightheadedness, the patient should try to sit or lie down as soon as possible. Patients who experience this symptom while taking milk of magnesia should discontinue the use of it immediately.

Does milk of magnesia cause nausea?

Milk of magnesia may irritate the stomach. This could trigger nausea and vomiting for some patients. These symptoms are more likely to occur in patients who need to take more than one dose to relieve their constipation . Doctors suggest that patients try to avoid strong odors or flavors to ease their nausea. It can also be helpful to go outside for fresh air. Some patients can relieve their nausea by eating peppermint or ginger, and eating bland food such as rice or crackers could be soothing for nausea as well.

Is Milk of Magnesia over the counter?

HealthPrep Staff. Milk of magnesia is an oral suspension that contains hydrated magnesium carbonate. It is an over-the-counter medication intended for occasional or short-term use as an antacid or laxative. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should ask their physician before using milk of magnesia. Patients with kidney disease should check ...

What is milk of magnesia used for?

In lesser doses (0.5–1.5 grams), Milk of Magnesia is used as antacid medication, neutralizing hydrochloric acid produced ...

How is milk of magnesium excreted?

The rest is excreted by the kidneys via urine. Although Milk of Magnesia is an effective constipation and heartburn remedy that acts seemingly more gentle and natural then other drugs that promote active intestinal peristalsis, frequent or long term use of Milk of Magnesia can lead to serious health complications.

What is the term for an electrolyte disturbance in which there is an abnormally elevated level of magnesium in the?

Hypermagnesemia – an electrolyte disturbance in which there is an abnormally elevated level of magnesium in the blood (especially in people with impaired renal function) Kidney function damage. Renal failure. Anemia. Mineral and vitamin deficiencies, especially folic acid, iron and vitamin B12.

Can magnesium be taken with magnesium?

Without appropriate mineral balance testing, taking magnesium is not advised. Furthermore, since magnesium interacts with many medications, consult your doctor first before taking any magnesium supplements. If constipation is frequently an issue for you, one of the best natural remedies for it is Ginger Tea.

Can magnesium cause diarrhea?

The initial symptom of excess magnesium in the intestinal tract is diarrhea. However, even if the diarrhea is not present, the magnesium can still be toxic to the body if consumed frequently. Once the levels of magnesium are in excess, the following magnesium toxicity symptoms may develop

Can magnesium supplements help with insomnia?

Although magnesium supplementation is promoted by many naturopaths as healthy and essential, many people get enough magnesium from diets. Taking additional magnesium in form of supplements for insomnia, muscle pain, anxiety and neurological disorders may alleviate some symptoms.

Does magnesium cause fatty acid levels to decrease?

Stomach, abdominal pain. Blood in stools and rectal bleeding. Low blood pressure. Mineral imbalances; Magnesium reduces the levels of iron, calcium, phytates and causes a decrease of fatty acids concentrations due to reduced efficiency of digestion process.

How much magnesium is in milk of magnesia?

Depending on the brand, each tablespoon may contain between 500 and 1,200 milligrams of magnesium hydroxide, so adults can take up to 2,000 milligrams . Milk of Magnesia is safe for children, but the dosage depends on their age. For accurate dosage information based on your unique situation, consult with your doctor.

What is Milk of Magnesia?

Milk of Magnesia is a product that comes in tablet, powder and liquid form.

How long does it take for milk of magnesia to work?

Take the dose orally and follow with a full 8-ounce glass of water. It can take up to six hours for Milk of Magnesia to cause a bowel movement, so plan accordingly. Some people prefer to take the dose in the evening before bed with the expectation of having a bowel movement upon waking.

Can you take milk of magnesium with probiotics?

Milk of Magnesia can also be taken with other digestive supplements, such as probiotics, stool softeners and digestive enzymes. Some experts, such as Mayo Clinic, recommend using Milk of Magnesia constipation remedy only after implementing a dietary approach.

Can you drink milk of magnesium syrup on weekends?

Consider drinking the Milk of Magnesia syrup in the evening or on weekends. Read more: Peanut Butter and Constipation.

Is milk of magnesium a laxative?

According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, Milk of Magnesia is the name of an antacid and laxative with the active ingredient magnesium hydroxi de. It is designed to treat occasional constipation on a short-term basis. However, many people with severe constipation may also find relief using laxatives with magnesium hydroxide.

Can you take milk of magnesium before school?

Do not take Milk of Magnesia before a social event or a busy day, such as school or work. It is best to plan your Milk of Magnesia dosage around your schedule so the side effects do not interfere with your personal life. Consider drinking the Milk of Magnesia syrup in the evening or on weekends.

What is the active ingredient in milk of magnesium?

The active ingredient in Milk of Magnesia is magnesium hydroxide. Magnesium is one of the essential nutrients that most people are deficient. So you can consider MOM as a food supplement.

How much magnesium is in a tablespoon of magnesium?

Each tablespoon has about 500 mg of magnesium. Please consult with your doctor, (I don't care if I poison myself but would feel terrible if I poisoned someone else), but I don't see a problem with it. Perhaps it would be better to take another form of magnesium supplement that is better than MOM's magnesium hydroxide and doesn't have all the other inactive ingredients contained within it.

How does milk of magnesia work?

Milk of magnesia is a type of hyperosmotic laxative. This kind of oral laxative works by drawing water to the bowel from nearby tissue. This softens and moistens the stool. It also helps increase bowel activity.

How old do you have to be to take milk of magnesia?

Most people over the age of 6 can safely take milk of magnesia. For children under 6, speak with your child’s doctor first.

Does milk of magnesia cause diarrhea?

The main side effect of taking milk of magnesia, or any laxative, is diarrhea. Usually, if you take the dose recommended on the label, the result should be a normal bowel movement. Everyone reacts to medications a little differently, though.

Is milk of magnesia a short term treatment?

Milk of magnesia is a short-term treatment. If you need to take it often to have a bowel movement, or if you try it and you’re still not having regular bowel movements, speak with your doctor. You may have an underlying medical condition.

Can dairy products cause constipation?

Eating too many dairy products may also cause some people to become constipated.

Is milk of magnesia a laxative?

Saline, lactulose, and polymer laxatives are the three types of hyperosmotic laxatives. Milk of magnesia is a saline laxative. These kinds of laxatives are also known as “salts.”. They’re meant to be fast acting. You can expect to have a bowel movement within six hours of taking milk of magnesia.

Is Milk of Magnesia safe?

Milk of magnesia is quite safe and can be taken daily without problems by patients with occasional constipation, heartburn, or dyspepsia. The most common side effect is diarrhea, although this is the desired effect for patients with constipation.

Can kidney problems cause magnesium toxicity?

They should avoid supplements, laxatives or antacids that contain this mineral. Overdosing on magnesium may overwhelm the system and result in magnesium toxicity. This may be what happened to your father-in-law because of his milk of magnesia habit.

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