There may be another cause of constipation that doctors can treat. Along with constipation relief, people can also use some versions of milk of magnesia to relieve heartburn and acid indigestion. Adults should take 5 — 15 ml at a time with water, and repeat up to 4 times per day as needed. They should not take more than 60 ml in any hour period. When using milk of magnesia as an antacid, it may also have a laxative effect.
Do not use milk of magnesia as an antacid for more than 14 days in a row. Talk to a doctor before using milk of magnesia to treat other digestive issues in children under Milk of magnesia also carries more serious side effects. People who experience any of the following should stop using the medicine straight away and seek medical attention:. Serious side effects are more likely to occur if a person takes more milk of magnesia than is recommended, or if they take it for an extended period.
People who are taking this medicine need to make sure they drink plenty of water to prevent becoming dehydrated. If anyone experiences diarrhea after taking a dose of milk of magnesia, they should avoid taking it again.
If someone overdoses on milk of magnesia, they should seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose may include:. Some people may be allergic to milk of magnesia. Signs of an allergic reaction that require medical attention include:. Magnesium may be able to cross the placenta into the body of the fetus. However, doctors do not know if milk of magnesia is safe for use during pregnancy as there is no data on this.
Small amounts of magnesium may also make its way into breast milk, but again, doctors do not know the safety of this. Milk of magnesia interferes with a wide range of medicines, which means it affects how they work. These include prescription and over-the-counter medicine, as well as vitamins and supplements. Because of the way it impacts the liquids in the gut, milk of magnesia can stop tablets from being absorbed properly.
Milk of magnesia is a well-known and effective laxative for the short-term treatment of constipation. People should not use milk of magnesia for more than 7 days at a time for constipation or 14 days at a time for other digestive issues.
Ongoing symptoms can be a sign of a more serious gut health condition, so if the problem persists, a person should see their doctor. Milk of magnesia works by drawing water into the bowel from the surrounding tissue. This means it can stop a range of other medications, including prescription drugs, supplements, and vitamins, from being absorbed by the body. One of the most common causes of constipation is a low-fiber diet.
Anyone who takes medication for a health condition should talk to a doctor before taking milk of magnesia. Many people use magnesium citrate to relieve occasional constipation. Magnesium citrate is a laxative that works by softening the stool, which makes….
You can also drink water throughout the day and eat foods that are rich in water content, such as fruits and vegetables. Milk of Magnesia can also be taken with other digestive supplements, such as probiotics, stool softeners and digestive enzymes.
Some experts, such as Mayo Clinic , recommend using Milk of Magnesia constipation remedy only after implementing a dietary approach. Some changes to diet, especially increasing fiber intake, are believed to relieve constipation. If that does not work, Mayo Clinic recommends using Milk of Magnesia to find relief. Milk of Magnesia dosages can differ depending on your age and the product you purchase. The severity of your symptoms may also require a larger dose than recommended for someone with mild symptoms.
The U. National Library of Medicine recommends the following dosages:. Depending on the brand, each tablespoon may contain between and 1, milligrams of magnesium hydroxide, so adults can take up to 2, milligrams. Milk of Magnesia is safe for children, but the dosage depends on their age. For accurate dosage information based on your unique situation, consult with your doctor. According to Harvard Health Publishing , too many supplements containing magnesium can cause diarrhea.
While people who use Milk of Magnesium laxatives do so to increase the frequency of bowel movements, diarrhea is an unwanted side effect. While a Milk of Magnesia constipation remedy can be used, it is not a long-term solution. People with chronic or recurring constipation should seek other treatment to address the root of their digestive issues.
According to Mayo Clinic , diet and lifestyle changes may help relieve constipation. They recommend increasing fiber intake, exercising more frequently and taking your time when you feel the urge to use the bathroom.
Some laxatives and medications may also help with immediate relief. In severe cases, surgery may be needed. Like all laxatives, frequent use can cause a slow digestive system and dependence on the product. To avoid becoming dependent on Milk of Magnesia, use sparingly and as needed. Nutrition Beverages Milk. By Lacey Muinos Updated October 28, Claudia is a registered dietitian with a PhD in physical activity, nutrition and wellness. She is an expert in intuitive eating and nutrition science.
You can also consider team sports or swimming. Milk of magnesia typically works the first time you take it. You can expect to have a bowel movement within six hours.
Sometimes, this can occur in as little as half an hour. The nature and cause of your constipation may impact how long it takes for the treatment to work. If you have an underlying medical condition that may be causing constipation, be sure to discuss laxative use with your doctor. They may need to coordinate an effective treatment with other medications you take. While laxatives and stool softeners can help you overcome a bout of constipation, these medications come with side effects.
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