Aluminium Hydroxide belongs to a class of medications called antacids It can neutralise stomach acid due to its alkaline property. It is commonly used to treat indigestion, heartburn, and dyspepsia. It can also be used in people with kidney failure to reduce high phosphate levels.
Aluminium Hydroxide is available either in conventional tablets, chewable tablets or a suspension with other antacids (usually Magnesium). When Aluminium Hydroxide is taken as an antacid, it can be taken up to 4-6 times a day, preferably after meals and at bedtime. When it is used to treat high phosphate levels, usual dosages are 300-600 mg 3 times daily with meals.
Because of the wide variety of Aluminium Hydroxide products available, check with the specific product labelling for detailed dosage instructions. Administration of Aluminium Hydroxide may need to be separated from the dosing time of your other medications to avoid drug interactions.
The most common side effect of taking Aluminium Hydroxide is constipation.
Aluminium hydroxide often causes constipation. To minimize the risk of constipation, it is often combined with Magnesium which counteracts the effect (Magnesium has a mild laxative effect). If constipation occurs while taking Aluminum Hydroxide, drink more water, exercise, and discuss the side effect with your doctor or pharmacist.
Common dosing schedule:
Usually taken when you have symptoms or about one hour after a meal. If you have heartburn overnight, take a dose at bedtime without food.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Aluminium Hydroxide may interact with:
Aluminium Hydroxide may interact with a number of drugs. Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Aluminum Hydroxide is an over-the-counter medicine that can be purchased without a prescription from any retail outlet in Hong Kong. This includes grocery stores, convenience stores, medicine shops, and pharmacies. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Aluminium Hydroxide in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
Healthy Matters is Hong Kong’s leading health resource. Our mission is to help you make better health decisions and take control of your health.
Our team of experts is committed to producing reliable health content that is accurate, engaging and relevant, to cover your health & wellness journey from prevention to treatment.
Whether you are looking for trusted information on health conditions, wellbeing or looking for the right doctor or service in Hong Kong, we’re here to help!
Your health matters. Begin your health journey with Healthy Matters today!