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This medicine contains important and useful components, as it consists of
Aluminium Hydroxide is available in the market in concentration.
Aluminium Hydroxide
Before taking Aluminium Hydroxide, it is crucial for patients to consult their healthcare provider to ensure the drug is suitable for their condition. Important precautions include:
- Renal Impairment: Aluminium Hydroxide should be used with caution in individuals with kidney disease or renal impairment. Patients with reduced kidney function may be at increased risk for aluminium toxicity, which can lead to bone disease, encephalopathy, or anemia.
- Electrolyte Imbalances: Prolonged use of Aluminium Hydroxide may cause hypophosphatemia (low phosphorus levels) or hypercalcemia (elevated calcium levels). Patients should be monitored regularly for electrolyte imbalances, particularly if the medication is used for long durations or in high doses.
- Gastrointestinal Conditions: Patients with gastrointestinal obstructions or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) should use Aluminium Hydroxide cautiously, as it may alter gastrointestinal motility.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Aluminium Hydroxide should only be used in pregnancy when necessary, as it is categorized as a Category C drug by the FDA, indicating potential risks to the fetus. It is not known whether Aluminium Hydroxide is excreted in breast milk, so use during breastfeeding should be determined by a healthcare provider.
Aluminium Hydroxide is primarily used to:
- Antacid: It is commonly prescribed as an antacid to treat heartburn, acid indigestion, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) by neutralizing stomach acid.
- Hyperphosphatemia: It is used in the management of hyperphosphatemia (high phosphorus levels) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), particularly those on dialysis. Aluminium Hydroxide binds to excess phosphorus in the gut, reducing its absorption into the bloodstream.
- Peptic Ulcers: It may be used in combination with other agents to treat peptic ulcers by neutralizing gastric acid and providing a protective barrier for the stomach lining.
Aluminium Hydroxide should not be used in the following situations:
- Severe Renal Impairment: Patients with severe kidney disease or renal failure should avoid Aluminium Hydroxide, as they are at risk of aluminium toxicity, which may result in neurological, bone, and hematological complications.
- Hypophosphatemia: The drug should not be used in patients with low phosphorus levels (hypophosphatemia) as it can worsen this condition.
- Gastrointestinal Obstruction: It is contraindicated in individuals with a history of intestinal obstruction or those with severe bowel conditions, as it may worsen gastrointestinal motility issues.
- Hypersensitivity: Patients with known hypersensitivity or allergy to Aluminium Hydroxide or any of its components should avoid its use.
Common side effects associated with Aluminium Hydroxide use include:
- Constipation: A frequent side effect of Aluminium Hydroxide, particularly when used in high doses or for prolonged periods, due to its binding effects in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Aluminium Toxicity: In patients with renal impairment, there is a risk of aluminium accumulation, which can lead to bone pain, muscle weakness, anemia, and neurological symptoms like confusion or seizures.
- Electrolyte Imbalances: Prolonged use may cause hypophosphatemia (low phosphorus levels) or hypercalcemia (high calcium levels), which can result in symptoms such as muscle weakness, fatigue, and nausea.
- Flatulence: Some individuals may experience gas, bloating, or belching as a result of the neutralizing effect of the antacid.
- Nausea or Vomiting: These symptoms can occur in some individuals, particularly when the drug is used for a prolonged period or in high doses.
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Aluminium Hydroxide works as an antacid, neutralizing excess stomach acid and providing relief from symptoms of acid reflux, heartburn, and indigestion. Its mechanism of action includes:
- Neutralization of Stomach Acid: Aluminium Hydroxide acts as a buffer, neutralizing hydrochloric acid in the stomach. This increases the pH of the gastric contents, thereby alleviating the discomfort caused by acid reflux or heartburn.
- Binding Phosphate: In patients with hyperphosphatemia (high phosphorus levels), Aluminium Hydroxide binds to phosphorus in the gastrointestinal tract, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. This helps to reduce elevated phosphorus levels, which are common in patients with chronic kidney disease.
Aluminium Hydroxide can interact with several other medications, affecting their absorption and efficacy. Key interactions include:
- Tetracycline Antibiotics: Aluminium Hydroxide may reduce the absorption of tetracyclines (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline), fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin), and other antibiotics, potentially decreasing their effectiveness.
- Iron Supplements: It can decrease the absorption of iron supplements, leading to reduced effectiveness in treating iron deficiency anemia.
- Digoxin: Aluminium Hydroxide may affect the absorption of digoxin, a drug used for heart conditions, which could alter its effectiveness.
- Thyroid Medications: Aluminium Hydroxide may reduce the absorption of levothyroxine and other thyroid medications, potentially impairing thyroid function.
- Other Antacids: When used concurrently with other antacids (e.g., magnesium hydroxide or calcium carbonate), Aluminium Hydroxide may lead to an increased risk of electrolyte imbalances, especially hypermagnesemia or hypercalcemia.
The typical adult dose of Aluminium Hydroxide depends on the condition being treated:
- For Heartburn/Indigestion: The usual dose is 500 mg to 1 g taken 3 to 4 times per day after meals and at bedtime. The maximum daily dose is typically 4 g.
- For Hyperphosphatemia: In patients with chronic kidney disease, the dose is typically 300 to 600 mg, taken with meals to reduce phosphorus absorption. The dose may vary based on the severity of hyperphosphatemia and the patient’s clinical condition.
Aluminium Hydroxide is not typically recommended for children under the age of 12 unless directed by a healthcare provider. For pediatric use, the typical dose is:
- For Heartburn/Indigestion: The usual dose for children aged 12 years or older is 300 to 600 mg, taken 3 to 4 times daily with meals and at bedtime.
- For Hyperphosphatemia: Dosing in children with kidney disease is based on the severity of hyperphosphatemia, and adjustments should be made by the child’s healthcare provider.
Important Reminder:
As with any medication, it is important for patients to consult their healthcare provider before starting Aluminium Hydroxide. A healthcare provider will ensure that it is appropriate for the individual's specific health needs and help monitor for potential side effects or drug interactions. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to manage kidney function, electrolyte balance, and any other ongoing health concerns.
Renal adjustment is necessary for individuals with renal impairment due to the risk of aluminium toxicity. In patients with moderate to severe renal impairment, it is important to either reduce the dose of Aluminium Hydroxide or avoid its use altogether. In mild renal impairment, it is typically safe, but regular monitoring of aluminium levels and electrolyte balance is essential.