Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral. Milk of Magnesia reduces stomach acid, and increases water in the intestines which may induce bowel movements.

Milk of Magnesia is used as a laxative to relieve occasional constipation.

Milk of Magnesia is also used as an antacid to relieve indigestion, sour stomach, and heartburn.

Milk of Magnesia may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Do not use Milk of Magnesia without a doctor's advice if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.

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, Milk of Magnesia should produce a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours.

Call your doctor if the condition you are treating with Milk of Magnesia does not improve, or if it gets worse while using this medicine.

Do not use Milk of Magnesia for longer than 7 days without medical advice.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Do not use Milk of Magnesia without a doctor's advice if you have stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if Milk of Magnesia is safe to use if:

• you have kidney disease;

• you are on a low-magnesium diet; or

• 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.

Since 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.

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.

Follow your doctor's instructions about any restrictions on food, beverages, or activity.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Milk of Magnesia may cause serious side effects. Stop using Milk of Magnesia and call your doctor at once if you have:

• severe nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea;

• no bowel movement after using the medicine as a laxative;

• rectal bleeding; or

• worsening symptoms.

Common side effects of Milk of Magnesia may include:

• diarrhea; or

• 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.

Other drugs may affect 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.