Aluminum hydroxide is an antacid used to relieve heartburn, indigestion, and excess stomach acid. It works by neutralizing stomach acid, which helps reduce burning, fullness, and discomfort in the upper abdomen.
Aluminum hydroxide is available as a liquid suspension and in combination antacid products that may also contain magnesium hydroxide or simethicone. It is commonly taken after meals or at bedtime to help control symptoms related to acid irritation.
Although aluminum hydroxide can provide short-term relief, it should not be used for more than 2 weeks unless directed by a healthcare provider.
Main uses
Aluminum hydroxide is indicated for:
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Heartburn or indigestion;
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Excess stomach acid;
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Stomach or intestinal ulcers;
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Inflammation of the esophagus, stomach, or intestines.
It works by neutralizing stomach acid, which helps relieve symptoms such as burning, a feeling of fullness, excess gas, and belching (burping).
Aluminum hydroxide should be taken only under the supervision of a primary care provider or gastroenterologist. A healthcare professional should determine the appropriate dose and duration of treatment for each individual.
Dosing instructions
Aluminum hydroxide is taken by mouth. Chewable tablets should be chewed thoroughly or allowed to dissolve in the mouth before swallowing.
For the oral suspension (liquid form), measure the prescribed dose using a dosing cup and mix it with water or milk before taking it. Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Aluminum hydroxide is generally taken 1 hour after meals and/or at bedtime, as directed by a healthcare provider.
If you are taking iron (Fe) or folic acid supplements, take aluminum hydroxide at least 2 hours before or after these products. Avoid consuming citrus fruit juices within 3 hours of aluminum hydroxide, as they can reduce absorption.
Common dosages
Aluminum hydroxide is most commonly available as an oral suspension and in combination antacid products. Because strengths and directions can vary by product, adult dosing should follow the specific package label or a healthcare provider’s instructions.
1. Aluminum hydroxide tablets
Aluminum hydroxide is more often available in chewable combination antacids than as single-ingredient tablets. The label instructions for these antacid products usually recommend divided doses taken after meals and/or at bedtime.
Treatment should not exceed 2 weeks unless directed by a healthcare provider.
2. Aluminum hydroxide suspension
Aluminum hydroxide oral suspension is commonly labeled by the amount per 5 mL (1 teaspoon). The adult dose depends on the specific product and the condition being treated, and should follow the product label or a healthcare provider’s directions.
Shake the bottle before each dose to properly mix the ingredients.
In most cases, use should not exceed 2 weeks. FDA-required OTC antacid labeling warns not to use the maximum dosage for more than 2 weeks unless under the advice and supervision of a physician.
Side effects
The most common side effects of aluminum hydroxide include diarrhea or constipation, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
With long-term use, especially in people who consume a low-phosphate diet, proximal muscle weakness (proximal myopathy) or osteomalacia may occur.
Aluminum hydroxide may also cause encephalopathy in people undergoing hemodialysis.
Contraindications for use
Aluminum hydroxide is contraindicated in the following situations:
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Phosphate deficiency;
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Severe kidney failure;
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Bowel obstruction or appendicitis;
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Stomach or intestinal bleeding;
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Hemorrhoids;
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Reduced production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach (hypochlorhydria).
Children under 6 years old and people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should only use aluminum hydroxide if recommended by a healthcare provider.
This medication should not be used by anyone who is allergic to aluminum hydroxide or any of the product’s inactive ingredients.