A fixed-dose combination antacid, antiflatulent, and laxative agent. Dimethicone acts as an antifoaming agent to relieve gas, aluminium hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide (Milk of Magnesia) neutralize gastric acid, and sorbitol acts as an osmotic laxative to relieve constipation. It is a first-line symptomatic treatment for dyspepsia, hyperacidity, and associated bloating and constipation, commonly used in the Indian OTC market.
Adult: 1-2 tablets or 5-10 ml of suspension, to be taken 2-4 times daily, preferably 1 hour after meals and at bedtime, or as directed by the physician. Maximum: 8 doses in 24 hours.
Note: Tablets should be chewed thoroughly or allowed to dissolve in the mouth. Suspension should be shaken well before use. Follow with a half glass of water. For optimal antacid effect, take 1 hour after meals. For laxative effect, best taken at bedtime. Do not take other oral medications within 2 hours of this antacid.
1. **Aluminium Hydroxide & Magnesium Hydroxide:** Neutralize secreted gastric hydrochloric acid, raising the gastric pH. This provides symptomatic relief from heartburn and dyspepsia. 2. **Dimethicone:** A physiologically inert silicone polymer with low surface tension. It acts as an antifoaming agent, dispersing and preventing the formation of mucus-enclosed gas pockets in the GI tract, facilitating their expulsion. 3. **Sorbitol:** A hyperosmotic sugar alcohol. It draws water into the intestinal lumen by osmosis, increasing stool water content, softening the stool, and stimulating peristalsis to relieve constipation.
Pregnancy: Category C (US FDA). Generally considered safe for short-term, intermittent use during pregnancy as components are poorly absorbed. However, use only if clearly needed and under medical advice. Avoid high doses.
Driving: No known effects. However, if diarrhea or abdominal cramps occur, it may impair the ability to drive or operate machinery.
| Tetracyclines, Fluoroquinolones (Ciprofloxacin), Iron supplements | Antacids (Al & Mg) form insoluble complexes, drastically reducing antibiotic/iron absorption. | Major |
| Digoxin, Quinidine | Aluminium hydroxide can decrease absorption. Monitor levels. | Moderate |
| H2 Blockers (Ranitidine), PPIs (Omeprazole) | Concurrent use is generally not recommended as it may reduce absorption of these drugs. Administer at least 2 hours apart. | Moderate |
| Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate | Risk of intestinal necrosis when combined with sorbitol. Avoid. | Major |
| Levothyroxine | Aluminium hydroxide interferes with absorption. Administer at least 4 hours apart. | Moderate |
| Enteric-coated or Delayed-release formulations | Increased gastric pH may cause premature release in the stomach. Separate administration. | Moderate |
Same composition (Dimethicone (50mg) + Aluminium Hydroxide (250mg) + Milk Of Magnesia (250mg) + Sorbitol (1.25gm)), different brands: