Maalox
(aluminum / magnesium / simethicone)
Relieves heartburn and indigestion.
Our bottom line
Maalox (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone) gives quick relief for heartburn, gas, and bloating, but it may not be as effective or last as long as other antacids.
- Drug class: Gastrointestinal
- Rx status: Over-the-counter
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone)
Upsides
- Works quickly.
- Inexpensive and available over-the-counter.
- Is one of the first choice medications for heartburn relief if you are pregnant.
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What to expect from Maalox, on one page
Downsides
- Doesn't last very long. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you need longer lasting relief.
- Is not a good option if you have frequent symptoms (more than 2 times a week). Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about stronger medications.
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What to expect from Maalox, on one page
Maalox (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone) is a combination medicine for heartburn and indigestion. Aluminum and magnesium are antacids that treat heartburn and indigestion. Simethicone relieves gas and bloating.
- Drug class: Gastrointestinal
- Rx status: Over-the-counter
- Generic status: Lower-cost generic available (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone)
Used for
Dosage forms
- Chewable tablet
- Liquid
What to expect when you take Maalox (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone) for Heartburn and indigestion
Skip what to expect section. Skip to side effects section.- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Effectiveness
- Full effects
- First few hoursHoursFirst few daysDaysFirst few weeksWeeksFirst few monthsMonths
- Possible side effects
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Headache
It can take time for a drug to start working, or for some side effects to go away.
Source: FDA product label and Iodine pharmacistsSide effect rates for Maalox (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone)
Manufacturers don’t say how common these side effects are when taking Maalox for null
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Risks and Warnings for Maalox (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone)
Skip risks section. Skip to common concerns section.Maalox (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone) should not be used for more than 2 weeks. If you need to use Maalox (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone) more than 2 times a week or if your symptoms do not go away after 2 weeks, stop using Maalox (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone) and talk to your doctor. You may need stronger therapy. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle and dietary changes that can help prevent heartburn.
Common concerns from people taking Maalox (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone)
Final section. Do you want to return to drug navigation?- Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about foods to avoid that can help prevent heartburn.
- Maalox (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone) contains aluminum and magnesium that can build up in your kidneys if you have kidney problems which can be dangerous. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Maalox (aluminum / magnesium / simethicone) to see if it is right for you. Don't take more than the maximum amount per day as shown on the label.