Milk of Magnesia: Its Chemistry and Medicinal Use

by Yuvi K - December 23, 2023

What is Milk of Magnesia?

Milk of magnesia, or magnesium hydroxide, is a popular over-the-counter medication that has been used for many years to treat a variety of ailments. The active ingredient, magnesium, helps to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach, which can relieve acid indigestion, heartburn, and other digestive problems. Although milk of magnesia is available in liquid and tablet form, the liquid form is generally considered to be more effective and is sold in individual doses.

What is the Chemistry Behind Milk of Magnesia?

Milk of magnesia is a combination of magnesium hydroxide and water. Magnesium hydroxide is a type of base, or alkali, which is a chemical substance that reacts with acids to neutralize them. The magnesium hydroxide in milk of magnesia aids in neutralizing excess stomach acid that is produced during periods of troubled digestion. Magnesium hydroxide also helps to create a protective coating on the stomach lining and can coat any irritating substances you may have consumed.

What is the Medicinal Use of Milk of Magnesia?

Milk of magnesia is used for the treatment of acid indigestion, heartburn, and other digestive problems. It is also commonly used to relieve constipation and as a laxative to help flush out the digestive system. Milk of magnesia can also be used for the treatment of stomach ulcers, gas and bloating, and hiatal hernia.

Aside from its medicinal use, milk of magnesia is also commonly used as an antacid to neutralize excess stomach acid during digestion. This can help reduce stomach discomfort caused by acid reflux, bloating and gas.

What are the Side Effects of Milk of Magnesia?

Although milk of magnesia is generally safe and effective when taken as directed, it can cause some side effects in certain people. Side effects may include nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, diarrhea, and constipation. In rare cases, milk of magnesia can also cause an allergic reaction in some people. If you experience any of these side effects, stop using the medication and call your doctor.

It is important to remember that milk of magnesia should only be taken as directed. Taking too much milk of magnesia can lead to serious health problems, such as magnesium poisoning and dehydration. If you are uncertain about the correct dosage, always consult a doctor before taking any medications.

Conclusion

Milk of magnesia is a popular over-the-counter medication that can help relieve acid indigestion, heartburn, and other digestive issues. Its active ingredient, magnesium hydroxide, helps to neutralize excess stomach acid and can coat any irritating substances in the stomach. Milk of magnesia is also commonly used as an antacid and as a laxative to help flush out the digestive system.

Although milk of magnesia is generally safe and effective when taken as directed, it can cause some side effects in certain people, such as nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, diarrhea, and constipation. Too much milk of magnesia can also lead to serious health problems, such as magnesium poisoning and dehydration. If you are uncertain about the correct dosage, always consult a doctor before taking any medications.