Classes
DEA Class; OTC
Common Brand Names; AlternaGEL, Amphojel, Nephrox
- Antacids
Description
Antacid; some use for hyperphosphatemia; there is concern regarding Al++ toxicity with long-term use as a phosphate ‘binder’, thus use is limited to patients with high serum phosphate (7mg/dL). Not a primary treatment for PUD.
Indications
Indicated for use as an antacid to counteract the hyperacidity associated with gastritis, peptic ulcer disease including duodenal ulcer and possibly gastric ulcer, reflux esophagitis, and hiatal hernia.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to aluminum salts
Adverse Effects
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rebound hyperacidity
- Aluminum-intoxication
- Hypophosphatemia
- Chalky taste
- Constipation
- Fecal impaction
- Stomach cramps
- Milk-alkali syndrome
- Osteomalacia
Warnings
Aluminum toxicity may occur in renal failure patients
Hypophosphatemia may occur
Use caution in patients with heart failure, cirrhosis, edema, or renal failure
Will bind calcium if given at same time
Elderly may be predisposed to fecal impaction/constipation
Use caution in patients who have recently suffered massive gastrointestinal hemorrhage
Ask a doctor or pharmacist before use if taking a prescription drug
Antacids may interact with certain prescription drugs
If symptoms last >2 weeks, discontinue use and ask a healthcare professional
Pregnancy and Lactation
Pregnancy
May use for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux or heartburn during pregnancy when lifestyle modification and dietary changes are insufficient; use at recommended doses; avoid high doses of aluminum hydroxide
Lactation
Considered compatible with milk at recommended doses; monitor breastfeeding infant for adverse effects; aluminum is endogenous to breast milk
Maximum Dosage
Consult package label; maximum daily dosage is age and product specific. Do not exceed recommended daily dosage in any 24 hour period.
How supplied
Aluminum hydroxide
oral suspension
- 320mg/5mL
