Milk of Magnesia for Constipation

Magnesium hydroxide or MgOH₂ is also known as milk of magnesia. This liquid is taken orally and contains the naturally found mineral, magnesium. Charles Henry Phillips, in 1880, came up with the original formula. He sold the concoction under the name 'Phillips' Milk of Magnesia'.

A Little About Milk of Magnesia

Milk of magnesia is an alkaline suspension. When it comes in contact with anything acidic, it neutralizes the acid. Hence, it works to cure constipation and indigestion as it combats stomach acid and neutralizes it. Hydrochloric acid generated by cells in the stomach often leads to heartburn, indigestion, stomach ulcers and constipation.

Milk of Magnesia for Constipation

Constipation is irregularity in the digestive system, due to which a person experiences hard feces, which are difficult to expel. This condition usually happens due to over absorption of water in the colon. Having bowel movements less than thrice a week is also termed as constipation. Note that constipation is not a disease but a condition which can be caused by number of factors. Read more on constipation and irritable bowel syndrome.

When milk of magnesia is taken orally, it behaves like an antacid. The hydroxide in milk of magnesia combines with hydrochloric acid generated in the stomach and calms overactivity in the stomach. Milk of magnesia dosage for constipation will differ depending on how severe the constipation is. It is recommended to have milk of magnesia at bed time or as directed by the physician. It can also be given to children but should be given under medical supervision. Milk of magnesia scores over stimulant laxative, also called non-saline laxative. Stimulant laxative induces intestinal contractions which can be harmful for the bowel in the long run.

When milk of magnesia is taken in large quantities, it behaves like a saline laxative. Milk of magnesia as laxative stimulates intestinal mobility and helps flushing out toxins from the body. Magnesium present in milk of magnesia draws water and salt to the intestinal tract from the surrounding tissue using osmosis. Higher quantity of water in the intestinal tract helps in softening of feces and increasing feces volume. It also helps in stimulating nerves in the intestines. It can take anywhere between 6 to 24 hours for milk of magnesia to work depending on the dosage of the laxative used.

Milk of magnesia is a chalky tasting liquid that comes in bottles. It is found in original form as well as flavored and non-flavored forms. The milk of magnesia flavors available are cherry and mint. If you are not a big fan of the liquid, there is a chewable tablet variant which is also available. Milk of magnesia is also available in capsule form. For better effect, milk of magnesia should be taken either with a glass of water or juice to help in absorption.

Milk of Magnesia Side Effects

It is important to note that milk of magnesia has some side effects. Patients who suffer from chronic kidney diseases need to consult their doctor before they take this laxative. The kidneys excrete magnesium because high quantities of magnesium can wear out the kidneys and cause magnesium toxicity of blood. At the same time, use of milk of magnesia in general is not recommended for a prolonged period of time. It can react with antibiotics, hence, consulting your health care professional is recommended. Nursing and pregnant women should consult a doctor before they take a dose of milk of magnesia. People on magnesium restricted diet also need to consult their doctor. In case of rectal bleeding or no bowel movement after consumption of milk of magnesia, contact your physician immediately. If an overdose is observed, contact poison control center immediately. Click here to know more about milk of magnesia side effects.

Milk of magnesia for constipation is a good laxative but should be taken in prescribed quantities only. For better results, increase the consumption of fiber in your diet. Milk of magnesia should be used only occasionally and if it has to be used for a prolonged period of time, it should be done only under medical supervision. Taking it for a very long period of time can create too much of magnesium in the body with resulting side effects.