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Magnesium Oxide - Learn about Magnesium Oxide Side Effects and Precautions

Magnesium Oxide Information

The pharmacology action of Magnesium Oxide is that it neutralizes gastric acid, thereby increases pH of stomach and duodenal bulb; also increases lower esophageal sphincter tone.

Magnesium Oxide is used in treatment of upset stomach associated with hyperacidity, including heartburn, gastroesophageal reflux, acid indigestion and sour stomach; relief of hyperacidity associated with peptic ulcer, gastritis, peptic esophagitis, gastric hyperacidity and hiatal hernia. Also used for treatment of hypomagnesemia, or magnesium depletion resulting from malnutrition, restricted diet, alcoholism or magnesium-depleting drugs.

Interaction and Contraindication of Magnesium Oxide

Interaction of Magnesium Oxide - Iron:  Decreased pharmacological effect of iron.
Nitrofurantoin:  Decreased pharmacological effect of nitrofurantoin.
Penicillamine:  Decreased pharmacological effect of penicillamine.
Tetracyclines:  Decreased pharmacological effect of tetracyclines.

Contraindication of Magnesium Oxide - Hypersensitivity to any ingredient; nausea, vomiting or other symptoms of appendicitis; acute surgical abdomen; fecal impaction; intestinal obstruction; undiagnosed abdominal pain; intestinal bleeding; renal disease.

Side Effects o f Magnesium Oxide

Here are the list of some common side effects ofMagnesium Oxide :

• Laxative effect (diarrhea); rebound hyperacidity.
• Hypermagnesemia
• Milk-alkali syndrome

Precaution and Warning while taking Magnesium Oxide

The precaution and warnings of Magnesium Oxide drug is as follows:

• Advise patient that drug may be laxative and cause diarrhea.
• If being used for antacid effect, instruct patient to notify health care provider if symptoms are not relieved or if black, tarry stools or "coffee-ground" vomitus occurs. These symptoms can indicate bleeding.
• Explain that drug should not be used routinely for laxative effect. Advise patient to use other forms of bowel regulation such as increasing fluid intake, mobility and bulk in diet.
• Warn patient not to take other medications within 2 hr of antacids

How to store Magnesium Oxide

• Administer caps or tabs with full glass of water or other liquid.
• Give 1 to 2 hr before or after other medications if possible.
• Store in airtight container in cool location unless otherwise specified by manufacturer.