Generic name: magnesium hydroxide [ mag-nee-see-um-hye-drock-side ]
Drug class: Antacids, Laxatives
Availability: Rx and/or otc
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
Brand names: Milk of magnesia, Pedia-lax chewable, Phillips milk of magnesia, Magnesium hydroxide, Dulcolax liquid
What is Ex-lax milk of magnesia?
Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral. Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia reduces stomach acid, and increases water in the intestines which may induce bowel movements.
Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia is used as a laxative to relieve occasional constipation.
Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia is also used as an antacid to relieve indigestion, sour stomach, and heartburn.
Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Do not use Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia without a doctor's advice if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
How should I use Ex-lax milk of magnesia
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor.
Measure liquid medicine carefully. Use the dosing syringe provided, or use a medicine dose-measuring device (not a kitchen spoon).
You may need to shake the oral suspension before each use.
You must chew the chewable tablet before you swallow it.
Take this medicine with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.
When taken as a laxative, Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia should produce a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours.
Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this medicine.
Do not use Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia for longer than 7 days without medical advice.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Before Taking
Do not use Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia without a doctor's advice if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia is safe to use if:
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you have kidney disease;
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you are on a low-magnesium diet; or
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you have a sudden change in bowel habits that has been ongoing for longer than 2 weeks.
Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. Skip any missed dose if it's almost time for your next dose. Do not use two doses at one time.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
Overdose symptoms may include severe diarrhea, muscle weakness, shortness of breath, and little or no urination.
What should I avoid while using Ex-lax milk of magnesia?
Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.
Ex-lax milk of magnesia side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia may cause serious side effects. Stop using Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia and call your doctor at once if you have:
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severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;
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no bowel movement after using the medicine as a laxative;
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rectal bleeding; or
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worsening symptoms.
Common side effects of Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia may include:
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diarrhea; or
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a decreased sense of taste.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Ex-lax milk of magnesia Side EffectsWhat other drugs will affect Ex-lax milk of magnesia?
Other drugs may affect Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all your current medicines and any medicine you start or stop using.