Aluminium Oxide + Magnesium Trisilicate

Allopathic
Indications
  • Symptomatic relief of acid indigestion, heartburn, and gastric hyperacidity.
  • Adjunctive treatment for peptic ulcer disease to neutralize excess gastric acid.
  • Management of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms.
  • Relief of dyspepsia and gastric discomfort related to acid overproduction.
  • May be used to alleviate symptoms of gastric irritation and gastritis.
Dosage & Administration
  • Formulation: Oral suspension or tablets combining aluminium oxide and magnesium trisilicate.
  • Adults and Adolescents (≥12 years):
    • Usual dose: 500 mg aluminium oxide plus 500 mg magnesium trisilicate per dose.
    • Administer 1 to 4 times daily, preferably 1–3 hours after meals and at bedtime.
    • Tablets should be chewed thoroughly or suspensions shaken well before use.
  • Pediatrics (<12 years): Safety and efficacy not established; use only under medical supervision.
  • Elderly: Use same dosing as adults; monitor for renal function impairment.
  • Renal Impairment: Use with caution; avoid overdose to prevent aluminium or magnesium accumulation.
  • Hepatic Impairment: No specific dose adjustments necessary.
  • Duration: Intended for short-term symptomatic relief; prolonged use should be under medical guidance.
Mechanism of Action (MOA)

Aluminium oxide and magnesium trisilicate are inorganic antacids that neutralize gastric hydrochloric acid through chemical reactions. Aluminium oxide reacts with gastric acid to form aluminium chloride and water, raising the pH of gastric contents and reducing acidity, which relieves mucosal irritation and heartburn. Magnesium trisilicate also neutralizes acid by forming magnesium chloride and silicates, which buffer the stomach acid. This elevation of gastric pH reduces pepsin activity and gastric irritation, promoting symptomatic relief of acid-related disorders.

Pharmacokinetics
  • Absorption: Minimal systemic absorption of aluminium and magnesium ions; action is localized in the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Distribution: Local effect in the stomach and upper GI tract; negligible systemic distribution.
  • Metabolism: Not metabolized as inorganic compounds.
  • Elimination: Any absorbed aluminium and magnesium are excreted primarily via renal clearance.
  • Onset of Action: Relief typically begins within minutes of oral administration.
  • Duration: Effects last approximately 1–3 hours depending on dose and gastric environment.
Pregnancy Category & Lactation
  • Pregnancy: Category C or unknown; minimal systemic absorption suggests low fetal risk; use only if clearly indicated and benefits outweigh risks.
  • Lactation: Considered safe; minimal excretion into breast milk and unlikely to cause harm to nursing infants.
Therapeutic Class
  • Primary therapeutic class: Antacid
  • Subclass: Inorganic antacid combination
Contraindications
  • Known hypersensitivity to aluminium oxide, magnesium trisilicate, or any formulation excipients.
  • Severe renal impairment due to risk of toxic accumulation.
  • Conditions requiring avoidance of antacids (e.g., intestinal obstruction).
Warnings & Precautions
  • Use cautiously in patients with impaired renal function to avoid aluminium or magnesium toxicity.
  • Prolonged use may cause electrolyte disturbances including hypophosphatemia or hypermagnesemia.
  • Aluminium compounds may interfere with absorption of other medications; separate dosing times.
  • Monitor for signs of aluminium toxicity in long-term users or those with renal impairment.
  • Discontinue use if allergic reactions occur.
Side Effects
  • Common:
    • Gastrointestinal discomfort including constipation (aluminium) and diarrhea (magnesium).
    • Nausea or mild abdominal cramps.
  • Uncommon:
    • Electrolyte imbalances such as hypophosphatemia and hypermagnesemia.
  • Rare:
    • Allergic reactions (rash, urticaria).
    • Aluminium toxicity with long-term use in renal impairment.
Drug Interactions
  • Aluminium and magnesium may reduce absorption of:
    • Tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics.
    • Iron supplements.
    • Phenytoin, digoxin.
  • Separate administration by at least 2 hours to prevent reduced efficacy of concomitant drugs.
  • Concomitant use with other aluminium or magnesium-containing products may increase toxicity risk.
Recent Updates or Guidelines
  • No major recent changes in indications or dosing.
  • Emphasis on caution in renal impairment to avoid toxicity.
  • Reinforcement of separating antacid and interacting drug dosing to maintain absorption and effectiveness.
Storage Conditions
  • Store at 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
  • Protect from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight.
  • Keep container tightly closed and out of reach of children.