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MAALOX SUSPENSION - Patient leaflet, side effects, dosage

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Sources: Original (products.mhra.gov.uk)

Patient leaflet - MAALOX SUSPENSION

1. what maalox suspension is and what it is used for

Maalox Suspension contains two different medicines. They are called dried aluminium hydroxide gel and magnesium hydroxide. They belong to a group of medicines called antacids.

Maalox Suspension is used for:

  • Heartburn or when your stomach has too much acid (indigestion)
  • Inflammation of the stomach (gastritis), and
  • When prescribed by a doctor may also be used for lowering the amount of acid in your stomach or gut (intestine) when you have an ulcer

Maalox Suspension works by lowering the amount of acid in your stomach.

  • 2. Before you take Maalox Suspension


Do not take

Maalox Suspension if:

X You are allergic (hypersensitive) to dried aluminium hydroxide gel or magnesium hydroxide or any of the other ingredients in Maalox Suspension (see Section 6: Further Information)

Signs of an allergic reaction include: a rash, swallowing or breathing problems, swelling of your lips, face, throat or tongue

X You are feeling very weak and have no energy (debilitated)

X You have kidney problems

X You have severe stomach pain

X Your bowel is partially or fully blocked

Do not take this medicine if any of the above apply to you. If you are not sure, talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Maalox Suspension.

Take special care with Maalox Suspension. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking this medicine if:

– You are on a low-phosphorous diet S3 Taking other medicines Please tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking or have recently taken any other medicines. This includes medicines you buy without a prescription, including herbal medicines.

Maalox Suspension should not be taken at the same time as other medicines. This is because Maalox

Suspension can affect the way other medicines work.

  • In particular, Maalox Suspension can affect the following medicines: Some medicines used to treat infections such as tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, rifampicin and ketoconazole
  • Medicines for malaria such as chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine
  • Chlorpromazine – used for mental illness (psychosis)
  • Vitamins

Pregnancy and breast-feeding

  • Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking this medicine if: You are pregnant, might become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant. You should not take Maalox Suspension during the first three months of pregnancy
  • You are breast-feeding or planning to breast-feed

Important information about some of the ingredients of Maalox Suspension

  • Maalox Suspension contains methylparaben (E218) and propylparaben (E216). These may cause an allergic reaction. This allergy may happen some time after taking this medicine. Signs of an allergic reaction include: breathing problems with wheezing and tightness in your chest (called “bronchospasm”)
  • Maalox Suspension contains sorbitol (E420). If you have been told by your doctor that you cannot tolerate or digest some sugars, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine

3. how to take maalox suspension

Taking this medicine

  • Shake well before use
  • Take this medicine by mouth
  • If necessary, Maalox Suspension may be taken with water or milk

Adults, the elderly and children aged 14 years or older

  • Take two to four 5 ml spoonfuls
  • Take 20 minutes to 1 hour after meals and at bedtime
  • Alternatively, take as directed by your doctor

If the symptoms do not go away, talk to your doctor.

Children less than 14 years old

  • Maalox Suspension is not recommended for children less than 14 years of age.

If you take more Maalox Suspension than you should

Talk to your doctor or go to a hospital straight away. Remember to take any medicine that is left with you so the doctor knows what you have taken.

The following effects may happen: diarrhoea, stomach pain or you may get a bloated feeling and cramping pain in the abdomen (stomach), be sick (vomit), have indigestion, heartburn, upset stomach, constipation, loss of appetite, dry mouth. This could be cause by an obstruction or blockage of the bowel (ileus).

4. possible side effects

Like all medicines, Maalox Suspension can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Stop taking Maalox Suspension and see a doctor or go to a hospital straight away if: Not known (frequency cannot be estimated from the available data) – You have a red and lumpy skin rash, swollen eyelids, face, lips, mouth or tongue, itching, difficulty breathing or swallowing. This could be an allergic reaction.

Tell your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects get serious or lasts longer than a few days. Also tell them if you notice any side effects not listed in this leaflet:

Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people)

  • Constipation
  • Diarrhoea
  • Not know (frequency cannot be estimated from the available data) Hypophosphatemia, this may occur at high doses of the product or even at normal doses especially in patients with low phosphorus diets
  • Hypermagnesemia is an electrolyte disturbance in which there is an abnormally elevated level of magnesium in the body
  • Hyperaluminemia is an electrolyte disturbance in which there is an abnormally elevated level of aluminium in the body

Reporting of side effects

If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor, pharmacist or nurse. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme at:

By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine

5. how to store maalox suspension

Keep this medicine in a safe place where children cannot see or reach it. Do not use Maalox Suspension after the expiry date which is stated on this leaflet and the bottle after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month.

Discard any medicine remaining 28 days after opening the bottle.

Do not freeze. Store away from direct sunlight.

Medicines should not be disposed of via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medicines no longer required. These measures will help to protect the environment.

  • 6. Further Information

What Maalox Suspension contains

  • Each 5 ml of suspension contains 220 mg of dried aluminium hydroxide gel and 195 mg of magnesium hydroxide, as the active ingredients.
  • The other ingredients are: methylparaben (E218), propylparaben (E216), citric acid (anhydrous), sodium saccharin, sorbitol (E420), mannitol powder, hydrogen peroxide, hydrochloric acid, peppermint oil and purified water.

What Maalox Suspension looks like and contents of the pack

Maalox® Suspension is a white, mint flavoured suspension and is available in 100 ml, 180 ml, 200 ml, 250 ml, 300 ml and 500 ml plastic bottles or 180 ml and 300 ml glass bottles or 10 ml sachets. Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer

Marketing Authorisation Holder Sanofi, One Onslow Street, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4YS, UK

Tel: 0845372 7101

email:

Manufacturer sanofi-aventis S.p.A.

Viale Europa, 11 – Origgio (VA), Italy

This leaflet does not contain all the information about your medicine. If you have any questions or are not sure about anything, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

This leaflet was last revised in January 2014

© Sanofi, 1990 – 2014

Sources: Original (products.mhra.gov.uk)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Maalox Suspension used for?

Maalox Suspension is used to relieve symptoms of heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach. It helps neutralize stomach acid.

How does Maalox Suspension work?

Maalox works by combining aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide, which neutralize stomach acid and provide quick relief from discomfort.

Is Maalox Suspension safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women?

While Maalox is generally considered safe during pregnancy, it's best to consult your doctor before using it. It's also recommended to check with a healthcare provider if you're breastfeeding.

Can I take Maalox Suspension with other medications?

Be cautious when taking other medications with Maalox. It can affect how some drugs are absorbed. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

How often can I take Maalox Suspension?

You can take Maalox Suspension as directed on the label or by your doctor. It's typically recommended to take it 1 hour after meals or at bedtime.

What are the possible side effects of Maalox Suspension?

Some people may experience side effects like constipation or diarrhea. If you notice severe side effects or an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately.

Can children use Maalox Suspension?

Maalox Suspension should only be used in children under 12 years old if prescribed by a doctor. Always consult your pediatrician first.

Is it safe to take Maalox Suspension every day?

Long-term use of Maalox is not recommended without medical advice. If you find you need it daily, consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

How should I store Maalox Suspension?

Store Maalox Suspension in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children. Check the expiry date before use.

Does Maalox Suspension contain gluten or lactose?

Maalox does not contain gluten or lactose, making it suitable for individuals with these dietary restrictions. However, always check the packaging for updates.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Maalox Suspension?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses.

Can I consume alcohol while taking Maalox Suspension?

It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Maalox as it may worsen gastrointestinal discomfort and interfere with the medication’s effectiveness.

Will Maalox help with nausea or vomiting?

Maalox is not specifically designed for nausea or vomiting but may help soothe the stomach if these symptoms are related to acid indigestion.

What flavors does Maalox Suspension come in?

Maalox Suspension typically comes in a pleasant mint flavor, making it more palatable for patients.

How long does it take for Maalox Suspension to work?

Most patients feel relief from symptoms within minutes after taking Maalox due to its quick action in neutralizing stomach acid.

Is there a sugar-free version of Maalox Suspension available?

Yes, there are sugar-free versions of Maalox available that can be suitable for individuals watching their sugar intake.

Can I use Maalox Suspension if I have kidney problems?

If you have kidney issues, consult your doctor before using Maalox as aluminum and magnesium can accumulate in those with reduced kidney function.

Is there anyone who should avoid taking Maalox Suspension?

Individuals with certain health conditions like severe kidney disease or those on a low-phosphate diet should avoid using Maalox unless directed by a physician.

Can I use herbal remedies alongside Maalox Suspension?

While some herbal remedies may be safe to use with Maalox, always check with your healthcare provider before combining treatments.