Milk of magnesia is used to get rid of constipation and it has also proven to be beneficial to treat acne and oily skin. As it is easily available over-the-counter, it becomes very important that it is taken in recommended quantities as overdose can have certain side-effects. So, let us know about the right amounts of dosage and some other frequently asked questions about it.
Scientifically, milk of magnesia is known as magnesium hydroxide Mg(OH)2. It is used for treating constipation, indigestion besides being used in cosmetic purposes to treat acne. It can be bought over-the-counter and is available in both, solid and liquid forms.
Milk of magnesia has been around for more than 130 years now. It was in 1880, when Charles Henry Phillips concocted the milk of magnesia and sold it under the name, ‘Phillips’ Milk of Magnesia’. Milk of magnesia has the property that it can neutralize acids, that is why it helps against constipation and indigestion. It works to produce a bowel movement within half an hour to six hours.
Recommended Dosage
The recommended dosage of milk of magnesia as a laxative for children in the age group 6-11 is around 1-2 tablespoons per day. For adults and children above 12 years, the dosage is around 2-4 tablespoons. For children below 6 years of age, it is always advisable to consult a doctor. If you have a kidney disease or are on a magnesium-restricted diet, you should definitely have a word with your doctor whether you can use milk of magnesia. It is normally advised not to exceed the recommended daily dose within a span of 24 hours. The best time to take milk of magnesia is before bedtime.
You should stop using milk of magnesia if you experience rectal bleeding after using this product. If you still have no bowel movements after using milk of magnesia, you should get yourself checked by a doctor.
FAQs
- If a person has diabetes, can he use the milk of magnesia?
Milk of magnesia is sugar-free, so it can be used by people suffering from diabetes. However, it is better to consult your doctor before using the product. - Are there any special precautions that need to be followed while storing milk of magnesia?
There are no special requirements to store the milk of magnesia. You can store it at the room temperature with the cap tightly secured.
- Can milk of magnesia be taken during pregnancy?
Doctors are of the opinion that milk of magnesia is safe to use during pregnancy but still you should avoid self-medication and have a word with your doctor before taking it. - How does milk of magnesia help in treating acne?
Acne is caused by overactive oil glands and inflammation of the skin. Milk of magnesia helps in absorbing the excess oil and prevents the skin from inflammation. Milk of magnesia, in this case, should be used for external uses only.
Side-Effects of Milk of Magnesia
Milk of magnesia is primarily used to treat intermittent bowel movements. Some people complain of diarrhea after using the milk of magnesia. It can also upset the stomach, so one should take the medication with food. Milk of magnesia can also cause an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to magnesium. Prolonged dependence on milk of magnesia can cause an electrolyte imbalance in the body, so it important that you drink lots of water after taking this medication. Laxative products including milk of magnesia interfere with the natural ability of colon to contract, so it is always advised not to use milk of magnesia for more than one week continuously.
Milk of magnesia can be easily bought over-the-counter and is a quick way to get rid of constipation and indigestion. We hope that the information mentioned in the article helps you in knowing about milk and magnesia and its benefits to the human body.
