What is the use of magnesium hydroxide?
Magnesium hydroxide is used to treat occasional constipation in children and adults on a short-term basis. Magnesium hydroxide is in a class of medications called saline laxatives. It works by causing water to be retained with the stool. Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral. Magnesium hydroxide reduces stomach acid, and increases water in the intestines Magnesium hydroxide is the inorganic compound with the chemical formula Mg(OH)₂. It occurs in nature as the mineral brucite. It is a white solid with low solubility in water. Magnesium hydroxide is a common component of antacids, such as milk of magnesia. Side effects of magnesium hydroxide include:
- Abdominal cramping.
- Diarrhea.
- Electrolyte imbalance.
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Muscle weakness.
- Respiratory depression
