It is an over-the-counter (OTC) saline laxative that starts working within a few hours to relieve constipation.
Milk of Magnesia is available as an oral suspension (liquid).
Milk of magnesia is only indicated for short-term use.
Maskot / Getty Images
Maskot / Getty Images
Laxatives for Constipation
Laxativesare pharmaceutical products that increase bowel movements and loosen stools.
They are often used in the management or treatment of constipation.
Laxatives stimulate intestinal movements and absorb water in the intestine, making stool soft and easy to pass.
Laxatives are usually available in oral tablets, capsules, suspensions, rectal suppositories, and enemas.
Laxatives are available on prescription and are also generally available OTC laxatives.
There are differentclasses of laxativesbased on the mode of action.
As a saline laxative, it increases the water content and volume of the stool by retaining the water.
Furthermore, it increases the number of bowel movements, softens the stool, and makes passing easier.
Other OTC brand names of magnesium hydroxide are available, such as Pedia-Lax.
How Long Does Milk of Magnesia Take to Work?
Milk of Magnesia usually takes 30 minutes to 6 hours to cause a bowel movement after oral administration.
Milk of magnesia is only for short-term or occasional management of constipation.
However, be sure to monitor yourself or a loved one for the emergence of worsening side effects.
Call your healthcare provider if the following symptoms do not go away.
Who Should Avoid Taking Milk of Magnesia?
Preventing Constipation
Constipation can be prevented or managed by adopting lifestyle modifications.
Sometimes, the constipation is resulting from other underlying health conditions or a side effect of taking medications.
Ask your healthcare provider about ways to manage it.
Summary
OTC laxatives are a first-line treatment option when dietary or lifestyle modifications are ineffective.
Milk of Magnesia is an OTC saline laxative used to treat occasional constipation.
It softens the stool in the intestine and makes it easy to pass.
The oral suspension starts working within 30 minutes to 6 hours after taking it.
However, use this medicine for a week at maximum.
It is a commonly used medicine but may have side effects such as vomiting or blood in stool.
Call your healthcare provider if you have any other medical condition before taking this medicine.
Finally, if applicable, keep all medications out of reach of children and pets.
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria similar to microorganisms found naturally in the human gut.
you could take magnesium with probiotics.
Dailymed.Label: Milk of Magnesia original-magnesium hydroxide liquid.
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DailyMed.Label: Almacone Double Strength- aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, dimethicone suspension.
