Aluminium Hydroxide: What It Is and How It Works

Aluminium hydroxide is a white powder that’s been used for decades to treat stomach upset and diarrhea. When you swallow it, the compound reacts with stomach acid and turns into aluminium chloride and water. This reaction neutralizes excess acid, giving you fast relief from heartburn or sour stomach.

Common Uses in Everyday Medicine

Most people meet aluminium hydroxide in over‑the‑counter antacids like Maalox or Mylanta. It’s also a key ingredient in some prescription meds that target diarrhea, especially when the stool is watery because of excess acid in the gut. In kidney disease, doctors sometimes prescribe it as a phosphate binder – it grabs extra phosphate in your gut so it doesn’t get absorbed into your blood.

How to Take It Safely

For heartburn, the usual dose is 1–2 tablets (about 250‑500 mg of the active ingredient) after meals, up to four times a day. If you’re using a liquid form, follow the label – typically a tablespoon mixed with water. When it’s part of a prescription for diarrhea, the doctor will tell you the exact amount, often 500 mg three times daily after meals.

Here are a few practical tips:

• Take it with food – food helps spread the powder through your stomach and reduces the chance of a chalky feeling.
• Avoid taking it with calcium‑rich foods or other antacids at the same time; they can interfere with each other’s absorption.
• If you’re on a low‑phosphate diet, ask your doctor how often you should use it – too much can lower phosphate too much.

Always read the label for any extra ingredients, especially if you have a known allergy to magnesium or other antacid components.

Potential Side Effects

Most people tolerate aluminium hydroxide well, but a few things can happen:

• Constipation – the most common complaint. If you notice hard stools, increase your water intake and add a bit of fiber.
• Dry mouth or a metallic taste – usually goes away after a few doses.
• Rarely, it can cause low phosphate levels (hypophosphatemia), especially in people with kidney problems. Your doctor may check blood levels if you use it long‑term.

If you experience severe stomach cramps, vomiting, or a rash, stop using it and contact a healthcare professional right away.

Drug Interactions to Watch

Aluminium hydroxide can bind to other medicines in your gut, making them less effective. Common culprits include:

• Antibiotics like tetracycline or fluoroquinolones.
• Iron supplements.
• Thyroid hormone replacements.

To avoid this, space out the dosing – take the other medicine at least two hours before or after the antacid.

Special Populations

Pregnant or breastfeeding moms should check with a doctor before using aluminium hydroxide, especially in high doses. Children under 12 need pediatric‑specific dosing, usually lower than adult amounts.

People with kidney disease need close monitoring because the kidneys help clear aluminium from the body. Excess aluminium can build up and cause neurological issues over time.

In short, aluminium hydroxide is a handy, cheap option for quick relief from acid‑related discomfort and certain types of diarrhea. Use it as directed, stay aware of side effects, and keep an eye on interactions. When in doubt, a quick chat with your pharmacist or doctor can clear up any confusion and keep you safe.