What it means
In small doses it neutralizes stomach acid. In larger doses it pulls water into the bowel (a saline laxativeLAK-suh-tivA drug that loosens stool or helps the bowels move, used to treat or prevent constipation.Full entry ) and usually produces a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours. Some of the magnesium is absorbed, which can build up when the kidneys do not work well.
For the nurse
Avoid it in clients with kidney disease, since magnesium can build up. Give it with a full glass of water, and give other oral drugs at a different time, because it can block their absorption.
At a glance
| Drug class | saline laxative; antacid |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Phillips' Milk of Magnesia |
| Also written | milk of magnesia, Phillips Milk of Magnesia |
Related terms
chronic kidney disease
Kidney damage or reduced kidney function that lasts longer than three months.
constipation
Bowel movements that happen less often than usual, with hard, dry stool that is difficult to pass.
laxative
A drug that loosens stool or helps the bowels move, used to treat or prevent constipation.