Alimag
Generic Name
Aluminum Hydroxide + Magnesium Hydroxide
Manufacturer
Aci Pharma
Country
Bangladesh
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Description
Overview of the medicine
Alimag is an antacid preparation containing Aluminum Hydroxide and Magnesium Hydroxide, used to relieve symptoms of heartburn, indigestion, acid reflux, and hyperacidity. It works by neutralizing excess stomach acid.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
1-2 teaspoonfuls (5-10 ml) of suspension or 1-2 chewable tablets, 3-4 times daily, 20 minutes to 1 hour after meals and at bedtime, or as directed by physician.
Elderly
Same as adult dosage, but caution should be exercised in elderly patients with impaired renal function due to potential accumulation of aluminum and magnesium.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution; avoid in severe renal impairment due to risk of hypermagnesemia and aluminum toxicity. Dosage adjustment may be necessary in moderate impairment.
How to Take
For oral suspension, shake the bottle well before use. For chewable tablets, chew thoroughly before swallowing. Take after meals and at bedtime for best effect.
Mechanism of Action
Aluminum Hydroxide and Magnesium Hydroxide are inorganic salts that act as antacids by chemically neutralizing gastric acid. Aluminum hydroxide also has astringent properties, while magnesium hydroxide has a mild laxative effect, which helps to counteract the constipating effect of aluminum hydroxide.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Rapid, typically within 5-15 minutes.
Excretion
Unabsorbed antacid is excreted in feces. Absorbed aluminum and magnesium ions are excreted by the kidneys.
Half life
Not directly applicable for local action; absorbed aluminum and magnesium are excreted renally.
Absorption
Minimal systemic absorption of aluminum and magnesium ions occurs from the gastrointestinal tract, especially in individuals with normal renal function. The primary action is local.
Metabolism
Antacids are not metabolized in the traditional sense; they react chemically with stomach acid.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, or any component of the formulation.
- Severe renal impairment.
- Hypophosphatemia.
Drug Interactions
Iron salts
Reduced absorption of iron supplements. Separate administration times.
Bisphosphonates
Reduced absorption. Separate administration by at least 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Tetracyclines and Fluoroquinolones
Antacids can decrease the absorption of these antibiotics. Take antacids at least 2-4 hours before or after these medications.
Thyroid hormones (e.g., Levothyroxine)
Reduced absorption. Administer several hours apart.
Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate (Kayexalate)
Risk of metabolic alkalosis and intestinal obstruction.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose is rare with normal renal function. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (from magnesium), constipation (from aluminum), or abdominal pain. In severe renal impairment, prolonged or high-dose use can lead to hypermagnesemia (muscle weakness, hypotension, respiratory depression) or aluminum toxicity (encephalopathy, osteomalacia). Treatment is symptomatic and supportive; dialysis may be required in severe cases.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy and lactation when used as directed and for short periods. However, consult a doctor before use, especially for prolonged treatment, to avoid potential electrolyte imbalances or aluminum accumulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date, check product label for specific expiry.
Availability
Available in pharmacies and drug stores
Approval Status
Approved (DGDA, FDA for similar combinations)
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Aluminum Hydroxide and Magnesium Hydroxide are long-established antacids with extensive clinical experience confirming their efficacy and safety in acid-related disorders. Specific trials for Alimag brand are generally for bioequivalence.
Lab Monitoring
- In patients with renal impairment, periodic monitoring of serum magnesium, aluminum, and phosphate levels may be advised during long-term use.
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients to space antacid intake from other medications, especially antibiotics and iron supplements.
- Counsel patients on lifestyle modifications to manage acid reflux.
- Monitor for signs of electrolyte imbalance in patients with prolonged use or renal impairment.
- Aluminum hydroxide can cause constipation, while magnesium hydroxide can cause diarrhea; this combination often balances these effects.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine after meals and at bedtime for optimal relief.
- Shake the oral suspension well before each use.
- Chew chewable tablets thoroughly before swallowing.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
- Consult a doctor if symptoms persist for more than two weeks.
- Avoid taking other medications simultaneously without consulting your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Alimag is not known to affect the ability to drive or operate machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid foods and drinks that trigger heartburn, such as spicy, fatty foods, caffeine, and alcohol.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals.
- Elevate your head during sleep.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid lying down immediately after eating.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.