Zenith Milk of Magnesia
Generic Name
Magnesium Hydroxide
Manufacturer
Zenith Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| zenith milk of magnesia 400 mg suspension | ৳ 60.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Zenith Milk of Magnesia 400 mg Suspension is an antacid and osmotic laxative. It is used to relieve occasional constipation, heartburn, sour stomach, and indigestion.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For constipation: 30-60 mL (1-2 tablespoons) once daily at bedtime or in divided doses. As an antacid: 5-15 mL (1-3 teaspoons) as needed, up to 4 times a day.
Elderly
Similar to adult dosage, but caution with renal impairment.
Renal_impairment
Reduced dosage may be necessary due to risk of hypermagnesemia; consult a doctor.
How to Take
Shake well before use. Take orally. May be taken with or without food. For constipation, it's often taken with a full glass of water.
Mechanism of Action
As an antacid, magnesium hydroxide neutralizes stomach acid. As a laxative, it draws water into the intestines from surrounding body tissues, softening the stool and increasing bowel movement.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Antacid: 30 minutes; Laxative: 30 minutes to 6 hours.
Excretion
Mainly unabsorbed magnesium excreted in feces; absorbed magnesium excreted renally.
Half life
Dependent on renal function, typically 2-6 hours for absorbed magnesium.
Absorption
Minimally absorbed systemically (approximately 15-30% of magnesium ions from the laxative dose, less from antacid dose).
Metabolism
Not metabolized.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Appendicitis
- Intestinal obstruction
- Severe abdominal pain
- Known hypersensitivity to magnesium hydroxide
- Renal failure (for laxative use)
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
May decrease digoxin absorption.
Warfarin
May enhance anticoagulant effect by decreasing vitamin K absorption (rare).
Iron supplements
May decrease iron absorption.
Tetracyclines/Quinolones
May decrease absorption of antibiotics; administer 2-4 hours apart.
Enteric-coated medications
May cause premature dissolution.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15-30°C), protect from freezing. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include severe diarrhea, muscle weakness, lethargy, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and difficulty breathing (due to hypermagnesemia). Treatment involves supportive care, intravenous calcium gluconate for severe hypermagnesemia, and dialysis in severe cases.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for occasional use in pregnancy and lactation, but consult a doctor.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Appendicitis
- Intestinal obstruction
- Severe abdominal pain
- Known hypersensitivity to magnesium hydroxide
- Renal failure (for laxative use)
Drug Interactions
Digoxin
May decrease digoxin absorption.
Warfarin
May enhance anticoagulant effect by decreasing vitamin K absorption (rare).
Iron supplements
May decrease iron absorption.
Tetracyclines/Quinolones
May decrease absorption of antibiotics; administer 2-4 hours apart.
Enteric-coated medications
May cause premature dissolution.
Storage
Store at room temperature (15-30°C), protect from freezing. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms include severe diarrhea, muscle weakness, lethargy, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and difficulty breathing (due to hypermagnesemia). Treatment involves supportive care, intravenous calcium gluconate for severe hypermagnesemia, and dialysis in severe cases.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Generally considered safe for occasional use in pregnancy and lactation, but consult a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date, refer to product label.
Availability
Pharmacies, supermarkets, general stores
Approval Status
Approved by FDA and other regulatory bodies worldwide
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
As an established OTC drug, specific large-scale clinical trials are less common for modern formulations, but efficacy and safety are well-documented over decades of use.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum magnesium levels (in patients with renal impairment or prolonged use)
- Electrolyte levels
Doctor Notes
- Advise patients on adequate hydration when using as a laxative.
- Caution in patients with renal impairment due to risk of hypermagnesemia.
- Educate about potential drug interactions, especially with antibiotics and iron supplements.
Patient Guidelines
- Do not use for more than 7 days without consulting a doctor.
- If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice.
- Drink plenty of fluids when using as a laxative.
Missed Dose Advice
Since this is an on-demand medication (for symptoms or occasional constipation), there is no regular dosing schedule. Take the next dose when needed, do not double dose.
Driving Precautions
Generally no known adverse effects on driving ability.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation.
- Stay adequately hydrated.
- Engage in regular physical activity.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.