aluminum

Antacids, Aluminum-based
Astringents

Oral Administration

Do not administer concurrently with other oral medications; see Drug Interactions for specific guidance on dosing separation.

Oral Solid Formulations

Capsules and tablets: Administer whole with a glass of water. Do not suck on or chew the tablets.

Oral Liquid Formulations

NOTE: Aluminum hydroxide suspension is available in several different concentrations. For individual composition see Product Information. Suspensions have a greater acid neutralizing capacity (ANC) than tablets or capsules because suspensions are more rapidly and effectively solubilized. Amphojel suspension has an ANC of 10 mEq/5mL. Amphojel tablets and Alu-Cap capsules have an ANC of 8 mEq/300 mg tablet and 8.5 mEq/400 mg capsule, respectively.
Oral suspensions: Shake well prior to administration. Measure dosage with a calibrated device. Follow dose with a glass of water.

Severe

GI obstruction / Delayed / Incidence not known

Moderate

hemorrhoids / Delayed / Incidence not known
constipation / Delayed / Incidence not known
osteomalacia / Delayed / Incidence not known
encephalopathy / Delayed / Incidence not known
impaired cognition / Early / Incidence not known
osteoporosis / Delayed / Incidence not known
hypophosphatemia / Delayed / Incidence not known
nephrolithiasis / Delayed / Incidence not known
hypercalcemia / Delayed / Incidence not known

Mild

weakness / Early / Incidence not known
malaise / Early / Incidence not known
anorexia / Delayed / Incidence not known

OTC

Antacid; some use for hyperphosphatemia; there is concern regarding Al++ toxicity with long-term use as a phosphate 'binder', thus use is limited to patients with high serum phosphate (7mg/dL). Not a primary treatment for PUD.

For use as an antacid to counteract the hyperacidity associated with gastritis, peptic ulcer disease including duodenal ulcer and possibly gastric ulcer, reflux esophagitis, and hiatal hernia. Oral dosage (tablets, capsules) Adults

NOTE: Aluminum hydroxide capsules and tablets are no longer available in the US. Dosage is variable; however, an acid neutralizing capacity of 80—140 mEq PO per dose is often required. Doses should be given every 3—6 hours, or 1 and 3 hours after meals and at bedtime. The recommended OTC dose is 600 mg PO given 5—6 times per day, after meals and at bedtime.

Oral dosage (oral suspension) Adults

Dosage is variable; however, an acid neutralizing capacity of 80—140 mEq (e.g., 40—60 mL) PO per dose is often required. Doses should be given every 3—6 hours, or 1 and 3 hours after meals and at bedtime. The recommended OTC dose is 10 mL PO 5—6 times per day, after meals and at bedtime.

Children

Safer and more effective alternatives exist; for use under health care professional advice only; 5—15 mL PO every 3—6 hours, or 1 and 3 hours after meals and at bedtime has been used.

Infants

Safer and more effective alternatives exist; for use under health care professional advice only; 1—2 mL/kg PO per dose, given 1—3 hours after meals and at bedtime, has been used.

For the management of hyperphosphatemia secondary to renal osteodystrophy in patients with end stage renal disease.
NOTE: Some clinicians prefer to avoid aluminum salts for this indication. Although calcium salts are preferred, aluminum salts may be desirable when serum calcium is also high. When the serum phosphate has been lowered sufficiently, aluminum salts can be replaced by calcium salts.
Oral dosage (oral suspension) Adults

300—600 mg PO, given with each meal or snack; monitor serum phosphate and titrate dosage accordingly.

Children

50—150 mg/kg/day PO, given in 4—6 divided doses.

For stress gastritis prophylaxis†. Oral dosage (oral suspension) Adults

Dosage is variable; however, an acid neutralizing capacity of 80—140 mEq (e.g., 40—60 mL) PO per dose is often required. Doses should be given every 3—6 hours, or 1—3 hours after meals and at bedtime. Dosage should be titrated according to intragastric pH.

Children

5—15 mL PO every 1—2 hours; titrate to gastric pH > 3.5.

Infants

2—5 mL PO every 1—2 hours; titrate to gastric pH > 3.5.

Neonates

1 mL/kg PO every 4 hours as needed.

†Indicates off-label use

Hepatic Impairment

No specific dosage adjustment appears needed, unless the patient also has declining renal function. The daily sodium intake from the antacid may need to be considered in patients with ascites.

Renal Impairment

CrCl > 25 mL/min: Patients with renal impairment may be at risk of accumulating aluminum. However, no dosage guidelines are available.
CrCl 10—25 mL/min: Patients with renal impairment may be at risk of accumulating aluminum. However, no dosage guidelines are available; dosage should be modified depending on clinical response and evidence of aluminum accumulation.
CrCl < 10 mL/min: While aluminum hydroxide has been used historically in patients with ESRD as a dietary phosphate-binder, avoid use in renal failure due to the potential for aluminum accumulation. If aluminum hydroxide must be used, the dosage should be modified depending on clinical response and evidence of aluminum accumulation.

Abacavir; Dolutegravir; Lamivudine: (Moderate) Administer dolutegravir 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking cation-containing antacids. The chemical structure of these antacids contain aluminum which can bind dolutegravir in the GI tract. Taking these drugs simultaneously may result in reduced bioavailability of dolutegravir.
Acalabrutinib: (Moderate) Separate the administration of acalabrutinib capsules and antacids by at least 2 hours if these agents are used together. Acalabrutinib capsules solubility decreases with increasing pH values; therefore, coadministration may result in decreased acalabrutinib exposure and effectiveness. In healthy subjects, the AUC of acalabrutinib was decreased by 53% when acalabrutinib was coadministered with another antacid.
Acetaminophen: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin, ASA; Caffeine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Aspirin; Diphenhydramine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Caffeine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Dihydrocodeine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Pyrilamine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected. (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Acetaminophen; Chlorpheniramine; Phenylephrine : (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Codeine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Doxylamine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected. (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Phenylephrine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected. (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Acetaminophen; Dichloralphenazone; Isometheptene: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Diphenhydramine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Guaifenesin; Phenylephrine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Hydrocodone: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Ibuprofen: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Oxycodone: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Pamabrom; Pyrilamine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Phenylephrine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Acetaminophen; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected. (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Acidifying Agents: (Major) Antacids may interact with urinary acidifiers by alkalinizing the urine. Frequent use of these high dose antacids should be avoided in patients receiving urinary acidifiers.
Acrivastine; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Albuterol; Budesonide: (Moderate) Enteric-coated budesonide granules dissolve at a pH more than 5.5. Likewise, the dissolution of the coating of extended-release budesonide tablets (Uceris) is pH dependent. Concomitant use of oral budesonide and antacids, milk, or other drugs that increase gastric pH levels can cause the coating of the granules to dissolve prematurely, possibly affecting release properties and absorption of the drug in the duodenum. In general, it may be prudent to avoid drugs such as antacids in combination with enteric-coated budesonide.
Alendronate: (Moderate) Separate administration of alendronate and aluminum hydroxide by at least 30 minutes. Aluminum-containing antacids will interfere with the absorption of alendronate.
Alendronate; Cholecalciferol: (Moderate) Separate administration of alendronate and aluminum hydroxide by at least 30 minutes. Aluminum-containing antacids will interfere with the absorption of alendronate.
Allopurinol: (Minor) Aluminum hydroxide decreases the oral bioavailability of allopurinol, possibly by inhibiting gastrointestinal absorption of allopurinol. Allopurinol should be administered no less than 3 hours before doses of aluminum hydroxide to avoid inhibition of allopurinol absorption.
Amphetamines: (Minor) Monitor for an increase in amphetamine-related adverse effects during concomitant antacid use. Increasing gastric or urine pH may increase amphetamine exposure and the risk for side effects in some patients. As antacids have rarely been observed to increase gastric or urinary pH above 6.5, antacid-related pH changes may be insufficient to warrant clinical concern in most patients.
Anticholinergics: (Moderate) Antacids may inhibit the oral absorption of anticholinergics. Simultaneous oral administration should be avoided when feasible; separate dosing by at least 2 hours to limit an interaction.
Ascorbic Acid, Vitamin C: (Minor) Because antacids can alkalinize the urine, they can interact with urinary acidifiers, such as ascorbic acid. Frequent use of high doses of antacids should be avoided by patients receiving urinary acidifiers.
Atazanavir: (Major) It is recommended that antacids not be given at the some time as atazanavir because of potential interference with absorption of atazanavir. Separate the administration of atazanavir and antacids to avoid the potential for interaction; give atazanavir 2 hours before or 1 hour after the antacid.
Atazanavir; Cobicistat: (Major) It is recommended that antacids not be given at the some time as atazanavir because of potential interference with absorption of atazanavir. Separate the administration of atazanavir and antacids to avoid the potential for interaction; give atazanavir 2 hours before or 1 hour after the antacid.
Atenolol: (Minor) Aluminum hydroxide antacids have been reported to decrease atenolol mean peak concentrations by about 20% and the AUC of atenolol by 57%. In another study, antacids have been shown to reduce the AUC of atenolol by 33%. Separate doses of atenolol and aluminum-containing antacids or supplements when possible by at least 2 hours to minimize this potential interaction. However, most clinicians consider the interaction of atenolol with antacids to be of minor clinical significance, since clinical efficacy (heart rate and blood pressure parameters) appear to be unchanged under usual intermittent clinical use.
Atenolol; Chlorthalidone: (Minor) Aluminum hydroxide antacids have been reported to decrease atenolol mean peak concentrations by about 20% and the AUC of atenolol by 57%. In another study, antacids have been shown to reduce the AUC of atenolol by 33%. Separate doses of atenolol and aluminum-containing antacids or supplements when possible by at least 2 hours to minimize this potential interaction. However, most clinicians consider the interaction of atenolol with antacids to be of minor clinical significance, since clinical efficacy (heart rate and blood pressure parameters) appear to be unchanged under usual intermittent clinical use.
Atorvastatin; Ezetimibe: (Minor) Antacids may decrease the peak plasma concentration (Cmax) of total ezetimibe by 30%. The effect of the antacids in this regard is not expected to have a significant effect on the ability of ezetimibe to lower cholesterol. However, to limit any potential interaction, it would be prudent to administer ezetimibe at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after administering antacids.
Azithromycin: (Moderate) Separate administration of immediate-release azithromycin and aluminum- and magnesium-containing antacids by 2 hours. Coadministration may decrease the absorption of azithromycin which may decrease its efficacy. The extended-release suspension may be taken without regard to antacids containing aluminum or magnesium.
Baloxavir Marboxil: (Major) Do not administer baloxavir with products that contain aluminum hydroxide. Polyvalent cations, such as aluminum, can chelate with baloxavir; thereby reducing its absorption.
Bempedoic Acid; Ezetimibe: (Minor) Antacids may decrease the peak plasma concentration (Cmax) of total ezetimibe by 30%. The effect of the antacids in this regard is not expected to have a significant effect on the ability of ezetimibe to lower cholesterol. However, to limit any potential interaction, it would be prudent to administer ezetimibe at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after administering antacids.
Benzhydrocodone; Acetaminophen: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Benzoic Acid; Hyoscyamine; Methenamine; Methylene Blue; Phenyl Salicylate: (Major) The therapeutic action of methenamine requires an acidic urine. Antacids containing alkalinizing agents such as sodium bicarbonate can alkalinize the urine, thereby decreasing the effectiveness of methenamine by increasing the amount of non-ionized drug available for renal tubular reabsorption. Increased urine alkalinity also can inhibit the conversion of methenamine to formaldehyde, which is the active bacteriostatic form; concurrent use of methenamine and urinary alkalizers is not recommended.
Bictegravir; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Alafenamide: (Moderate) Administer bictegravir on an empty stomach 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking antacids containing aluminum or magnesium. Routine administration of bictegravir simultaneously with, or 2 hours after, antacids containing aluminum or magnesium is not recommended as the bioavailability of bictegravir may be reduced. In drug interaction studies, simultaneous administration of bictegravir and antacids under fasted and fed conditions decreased the mean AUC of bictegravir by approximately 79% and 47%, respectively.
Bisacodyl: (Minor) The concomitant use of bisacodyl tablets with antacids can cause the enteric coating of the bisacody tablet to dissolve prematurely, leading to possible gastric irritation or dyspepsia. Avoid antacids within 1 hour before or after the bisacodyl dosage.
Bismuth Subcitrate Potassium; Metronidazole; Tetracycline: (Moderate) Separate administration of tetracycline and antacids by 2 to 3 hours. Coadministration may impair absorption of tetracycline which may decrease its efficacy.
Bismuth Subsalicylate; Metronidazole; Tetracycline: (Moderate) Separate administration of tetracycline and antacids by 2 to 3 hours. Coadministration may impair absorption of tetracycline which may decrease its efficacy.
Bosutinib: (Moderate) Bosutinib displays pH-dependent aqueous solubility; therefore, concomitant use of bosutinib and antacids may result in decreased plasma exposure of bosutinib. Separate the administration of bosutinib and antacids by more than 2 hours.
Brompheniramine; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Brompheniramine; Pseudoephedrine; Dextromethorphan: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Budesonide: (Moderate) Enteric-coated budesonide granules dissolve at a pH more than 5.5. Likewise, the dissolution of the coating of extended-release budesonide tablets (Uceris) is pH dependent. Concomitant use of oral budesonide and antacids, milk, or other drugs that increase gastric pH levels can cause the coating of the granules to dissolve prematurely, possibly affecting release properties and absorption of the drug in the duodenum. In general, it may be prudent to avoid drugs such as antacids in combination with enteric-coated budesonide.
Budesonide; Formoterol: (Moderate) Enteric-coated budesonide granules dissolve at a pH more than 5.5. Likewise, the dissolution of the coating of extended-release budesonide tablets (Uceris) is pH dependent. Concomitant use of oral budesonide and antacids, milk, or other drugs that increase gastric pH levels can cause the coating of the granules to dissolve prematurely, possibly affecting release properties and absorption of the drug in the duodenum. In general, it may be prudent to avoid drugs such as antacids in combination with enteric-coated budesonide.
Budesonide; Glycopyrrolate; Formoterol: (Moderate) Enteric-coated budesonide granules dissolve at a pH more than 5.5. Likewise, the dissolution of the coating of extended-release budesonide tablets (Uceris) is pH dependent. Concomitant use of oral budesonide and antacids, milk, or other drugs that increase gastric pH levels can cause the coating of the granules to dissolve prematurely, possibly affecting release properties and absorption of the drug in the duodenum. In general, it may be prudent to avoid drugs such as antacids in combination with enteric-coated budesonide.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen; Caffeine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Butalbital; Acetaminophen; Caffeine; Codeine: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Cabotegravir: (Moderate) Administer antacids at least two hours before or four hours after taking oral cabotegravir. The chemical structure of these antacids contains aluminum or magnesium which can bind cabotegravir in the GI tract. Taking these drugs simultaneously may result in reduced oral bioavailability of cabotegravir.
Cabotegravir; Rilpivirine: (Moderate) Administer antacids at least two hours before or four hours after taking oral cabotegravir. The chemical structure of these antacids contains aluminum or magnesium which can bind cabotegravir in the GI tract. Taking these drugs simultaneously may result in reduced oral bioavailability of cabotegravir. (Moderate) Concurrent administration of rilpivirine and antacids may significantly decrease rilpivirine plasma concentrations, potentially resulting in treatment failure. To decrease the risk of virologic failure, avoid use of antacids for at least 2 hours before and at least 4 hours after administering rilpivirine.
Capecitabine: (Minor) Monitor for an increase in capecitabine-related adverse reactions if coadministration with aluminum hydroxide is necessary. When an aluminum hydroxide-containing antacid was administered immediately after capecitabine, the AUC and Cmax of capecitabine increased by 16% and 35%, respectively; the AUC and Cmax of metabolite 5'-DFCR increased by 18% and 22%, respectively. No effect was observed on the other three major metabolites of capecitabine (5'-DFUR, fluorouracil, FBAL).
Captopril: (Major) Antacids can decrease the GI absorption of captopril if administered simultaneously.
Captopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Major) Antacids can decrease the GI absorption of captopril if administered simultaneously.
Cefdinir: (Moderate) Antacids containing magnesium or aluminum can interfere with the absorption of cefdinir. If aluminum or magnesium containing antacids are required during cefdinir therapy, cefdinir should be taken at least 2 hours before or after the antacid.
Cefpodoxime: (Moderate) Cefpodoxime proxetil requires a low gastric pH for dissolution; therefore, concurrent administration with medications that increase gastric pH (e.g., antacids) may decrease the bioavailability of cefpodoxime. Concomitant administration with high doses of antacids reduces peak plasma concentrations by 24% and the extent of absorption by 27%. The rate of absorption is not affected.
Cefuroxime: (Moderate) Antacids can interfere with the oral absorption of cefuroxime axetil and may result in reduced antibiotic efficacy. If an antacid must be used while a patient is taking cefuroxime, administer the oral dosage of cefuroxime at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after the antacid.
Cetirizine; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Chenodiol: (Moderate) Aluminum hydroxide based antacids have been shown to adsorb bile acids in vitro and are expected to interfere with the efficacy of chenodiol. To minimize drug interactions, administer chenodiol at least 1 hour before or at least 2 hours after the aluminum-based antacid.
Chlophedianol; Dexchlorpheniramine; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Chloroquine: (Major) Chloroquine absorption may be reduced by antacids. Administer chloroquine and antacids at least 4 hours apart.
Chlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Chlorpheniramine; Ibuprofen; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Chlorpheniramine; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Chlorpromazine: (Moderate) The absorption of chlorpromazine liquids, suspensions, or concentrates may be decreased by co-administration of antacids. It may be advisable to separate chlorpromazine administration from antacids by 1 to 2 hours. In a small study (n = 6), administration of a magnesium trisilicate and aluminum hydroxide liquid gel antacid with a chlorpromazine liquid suspension resulted in a statistically significant decrease in chlorpromazine concentrations (average 20% decline; approximate range: 6% to 48%). In another kinetic study (n = 10), concurrent use of chlorpromazine liquid concentrate and an aluminum and magnesium hydroxide suspension reduced the urinary excretion of chlorpromazine by 10% to 45%. Adsorption of chlorpromazine to the antacid suspension may have contributed to a subsequent decline in urinary excretion of the drug.
Cholic Acid: (Moderate) Do not administer cholic acid simultaneously with aluminum-based antacids (i.e., aluminum hydroxide) because a reduction in cholic acid absorption will occur. Administer cholic acid at least 1 hour before or 4 to 6 hours (or the maximal interval possible) after an aluminum-based antacids.
Ciprofloxacin: (Moderate) Administer oral ciprofloxacin at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after products that contain aluminum hydroxide. Ciprofloxacin absorption may be reduced as quinolone antibiotics can chelate with divalent or trivalent cations. Examples of compounds that may interfere with quinolone bioavailability include antacids that contain aluminum hydroxide.
Citric Acid; Potassium Citrate; Sodium Citrate: (Contraindicated) Avoid coadministration of antacids with citrate salts since increased absorption of aluminum can occur. In addition, some antacids like calcium carbonate, share the potential with the citrate salts for development of metabolic alkalosis, when given in higher dosage. (Major) Avoid coadministration of aluminum hydroxide with citrate salts due to the potential for increased absorption of aluminum. Patients at increased risk of aluminum accumulation include patients with renal impairment or renal failure.
Codeine; Guaifenesin; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Conjugated Estrogens; Bazedoxifene: (Minor) In clinical evaluation, a single dose of 460 mg aluminum hydroxide and 400 mg magnesium hydroxide was given with a bazedoxifene 40 mg tablet in 30 postmenopausal women after an overnight fast. Coadministration of aluminum/magnesium hydroxide and bazedoxifene decreased Cmax of bazedoxifene by 8% and increased AUC of bazedoxifene by 7%. The clinical effect of this change is not known, but appears to be clinically insignificant. Separating times of administration may help limit any possible interaction.
Dasatinib: (Moderate) Separate the administration of dasatinib and antacids by at least 2 hours if these agents are used together. The simultaneous administration of an antacid with dasatinib decreased the Cmax and AUC of dasatinib by 58% and 55%, respectively.
Deferasirox: (Moderate) Although deferasirox has a lower affinity for aluminum than for iron, deferasirox may also increase the excretion of aluminum. Because deferasirox may bind to aluminum instead of iron, aluminum containing antacids should not be administered concurrently in order to avoid a possible decreased efficacy of either therapy.
Deferiprone: (Moderate) Concurrent use of deferiprone with food, mineral supplements, and antacids that contain polyvalent (trivalent) cations has not been studied. However, since deferiprone has the potential to bind polyvalent cations (e.g., iron, aluminum, and zinc), allow at least a 4-hour interval between deferiprone and other medications or dietary supplements containing these polyvalent cations. Such medications can include antacids, iron salts, aluminum hydroxide, dietary supplements containing polyvalent minerals, and zinc salts.
Delafloxacin: (Major) Administer oral delafloxacin at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after products that contain aluminum hydroxide. Delafloxacin absorption may be reduced as quinolone antibiotics can chelate with divalent or trivalent cations. Examples of compounds that may interfere with quinolone bioavailability include antacids containing aluminum hydroxide.
Delavirdine: (Major) Coadministration of delavirdine with antacids results in decreased absorption of delavirdine. Administration of delavirdine and antacids should be separated by at least 1 hour.
Demeclocycline: (Moderate) Separate administration of demeclocycline and antacids by 2 to 3 hours. Coadministration may impair absorption of demeclocycline which may decrease its efficacy.
Desloratadine; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Dexbrompheniramine; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Dexchlorpheniramine; Dextromethorphan; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Dextromethorphan; Guaifenesin; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Dextromethorphan; Quinidine: (Major) Alkalinizing agents such as antacids can increase renal tubular reabsorption of quinidine by alkalinizing the urine; higher quinidine serum concentrations and quinidine toxicity are possible.
Diazepam: (Moderate) The coadministration of diazepam with antacids results in delayed diazepam absorption due to the fact that antacids delay gastric emptying. It may be prudent to separate dosing by 2 hours to limit any potential interaction.
Didanosine, ddI: (Minor) The side effects associated with aluminum hydroxide may potentially be increased during concurrent use with didanosine, ddI because some ddI products also contain similar antacid ingredients.
Diflunisal: (Moderate) Concurrent use of diflunisal with antacids may reduce plasma diflunisal concentrations. The effect may be clinically significant if antacids are used on a continuous schedule.
Digoxin: (Moderate) Monitor digoxin concentrations as appropriate and watch for decreased digoxin efficacy if coadministration with antacids is necessary. The dose of digoxin may need to be adjusted. Antacids may decrease the absorption of digoxin.
Diphenhydramine; Naproxen: (Minor) Concomitant administration of antacids can delay the absorption of naproxen. Periodic antacid use should not be problematic as long as the antacid and enteric-coated naproxen administration are separated by at least 2 hours.
Dolutegravir: (Moderate) Administer dolutegravir 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking cation-containing antacids. The chemical structure of these antacids contain aluminum which can bind dolutegravir in the GI tract. Taking these drugs simultaneously may result in reduced bioavailability of dolutegravir.
Dolutegravir; Lamivudine: (Moderate) Administer dolutegravir 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking cation-containing antacids. The chemical structure of these antacids contain aluminum which can bind dolutegravir in the GI tract. Taking these drugs simultaneously may result in reduced bioavailability of dolutegravir.
Dolutegravir; Rilpivirine: (Moderate) Administer dolutegravir 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking cation-containing antacids. The chemical structure of these antacids contain aluminum which can bind dolutegravir in the GI tract. Taking these drugs simultaneously may result in reduced bioavailability of dolutegravir. (Moderate) Concurrent administration of rilpivirine and antacids may significantly decrease rilpivirine plasma concentrations, potentially resulting in treatment failure. To decrease the risk of virologic failure, avoid use of antacids for at least 2 hours before and at least 4 hours after administering rilpivirine.
Doxycycline: (Moderate) Separate administration of oral doxycycline and antacids by 2 to 3 hours. Coadministration may impair absorption of doxycycline which may decrease its efficacy.
Eltrombopag: (Major) Eltrombopag chelates polyvalent cations (e.g., calcium, aluminum, and magnesium) in food, mineral supplements, and antacids. In a clinical study, systemic exposure to eltrombopag was decreased by 70% when it was administered with a polyvalent cation-containing antacid. Administer eltrombopag at least 2 hours before or 4 hours after any oral products containing polyvalent cations, such as aluminum salts, (like aluminum hydroxide), calcium salts, (including calcium carbonate), and magnesium salts.
Elvitegravir; Cobicistat; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Alafenamide: (Moderate) Separate administration of elvitegravir and antacids by at least 2 hours. Due to the formation of ionic complexes in the gastrointestinal tract, simultaneous administration results in lower elvitegravir plasma concentrations.
Elvitegravir; Cobicistat; Emtricitabine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Separate administration of elvitegravir and antacids by at least 2 hours. Due to the formation of ionic complexes in the gastrointestinal tract, simultaneous administration results in lower elvitegravir plasma concentrations.
Emtricitabine; Rilpivirine; Tenofovir alafenamide: (Moderate) Concurrent administration of rilpivirine and antacids may significantly decrease rilpivirine plasma concentrations, potentially resulting in treatment failure. To decrease the risk of virologic failure, avoid use of antacids for at least 2 hours before and at least 4 hours after administering rilpivirine.
Emtricitabine; Rilpivirine; Tenofovir Disoproxil Fumarate: (Moderate) Concurrent administration of rilpivirine and antacids may significantly decrease rilpivirine plasma concentrations, potentially resulting in treatment failure. To decrease the risk of virologic failure, avoid use of antacids for at least 2 hours before and at least 4 hours after administering rilpivirine.
Erdafitinib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of aluminum hydroxide with erdafitinib before the initial dose increase period (days 14 to 21) which is based on serum phosphate levels. Aluminum hydroxide decreases serum phosphate levels. The initial dose increase of erdafitinib on days 14 to 21 is based on serum phosphate levels; changes in serum phosphate levels by aluminum hydroxide may interfere with the determination of this initial dose increase.
Erlotinib: (Major) Separate administration by several hours if concomitant use of erlotinib and antacids is necessary. Erlotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; the increased gastric pH resulting from antacid therapy may reduce the bioavailability of erlotinib. Increasing the dose of erlotinib without modifying the administration schedule is unlikely to compensate for loss of exposure. The effects of antacids on erlotinib pharmacokinetics has not been evaluated.
Ethambutol: (Moderate) Aluminum hydroxide can reduce the rate or extent of ethambutol absorption. At least 4 hours should elapse between doses of aluminum hydroxide-containing antacids and ethambutol.
Ethotoin: (Major) Aluminum hydroxide inhibits the absorption of ethotoin. Simultaneous administration should be avoided; separate dosing by at least 2 hours to limit an interaction.
Etidronate: (Moderate) Separate administration of oral etidronate and aluminum hydroxide by at least 2 hours. Aluminum-containing antacids will interfere with the absorption of oral etidronate.
Ezetimibe: (Minor) Antacids may decrease the peak plasma concentration (Cmax) of total ezetimibe by 30%. The effect of the antacids in this regard is not expected to have a significant effect on the ability of ezetimibe to lower cholesterol. However, to limit any potential interaction, it would be prudent to administer ezetimibe at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after administering antacids.
Ezetimibe; Simvastatin: (Minor) Antacids may decrease the peak plasma concentration (Cmax) of total ezetimibe by 30%. The effect of the antacids in this regard is not expected to have a significant effect on the ability of ezetimibe to lower cholesterol. However, to limit any potential interaction, it would be prudent to administer ezetimibe at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after administering antacids.
Ferric Maltol: (Moderate) Doses of antacids and iron should be taken as far apart as possible to minimize the potential for interaction. Antacids may decrease the absorption of oral iron preparations. At higher pH values, iron is more readily ionized to its ferric state and is more poorly absorbed.
Fexofenadine: (Moderate) Coadministration with antacids (containing aluminum or magnesium) within 15 minutes decreases the AUC and Cmax of fexofenadine by 41% and 43%, respectively. Separate administration is recommended.
Fexofenadine; Pseudoephedrine: (Moderate) Coadministration with antacids (containing aluminum or magnesium) within 15 minutes decreases the AUC and Cmax of fexofenadine by 41% and 43%, respectively. Separate administration is recommended. (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Fosamprenavir: (Moderate) Administer fosamprenavir at least 1 hour before or 1 hour after antacids. Coadministration may decrease the exposure of fosamprenavir and impair its efficacy.
Fosinopril: (Moderate) Coadministration of antacids with fosinopril may impair absorption of fosinopril. Therefore, if concomitant administration of these agents is indicated, dosing should be separated by 2 hours.
Fosinopril; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Coadministration of antacids with fosinopril may impair absorption of fosinopril. Therefore, if concomitant administration of these agents is indicated, dosing should be separated by 2 hours.
Gabapentin: (Moderate) Gabapentin should be taken at least 2 hours after the administration of antacids. Antacids have been shown to reduce the oral bioavailability of gabapentin by roughly 20%. This decrease in bioavailability was about 5% when gabapentin was administered 2 hours after the antacid.
Gastrointestinal Enzymes: (Major) The effectiveness of gastrointestinal enzymes can be diminished with concurrent administration of antacids. In-vitro studies suggest that calcium and magnesum cations exert their deleterious effect on replacement enzyme therapy by formation of poorly soluble calcium or magnesium soaps and precipitation of glycine conjugated bile salts.
Gefitinib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of antacids with gefitinib if possible due to decreased exposure to gefitinib, which may lead to reduced efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, take gefitinib 6 hours after the last dose or 6 hours before the next antacid dose. Gefitinib exposure is affected by gastric pH. Coadministration with another drug to maintain gastric pH above 5 decreased gefitinib exposure by 47%.
Gemifloxacin: (Major) Administer products that contain aluminum hydroxide at least 3 hours before or 2 hours after gemifloxacin. Gemifloxacin absorption may be reduced as quinolone antibiotics can chelate with divalent or trivalent cations. Examples of compounds that may interfere with quinolone bioavailability include antacids that contain aluminum hydroxide.
Glipizide: (Moderate) Antacids have been reported to increase the absorption of glipizide, enhancing its hypoglycemic effects. Although the exact mechanism is not known, theoretically it may be due to alterations in gastric pH. If these drugs must be used together, give glipizide at least 2 hours prior to the antacid. Consider closely monitoring blood glucose concentrations.
Glipizide; Metformin: (Moderate) Antacids have been reported to increase the absorption of glipizide, enhancing its hypoglycemic effects. Although the exact mechanism is not known, theoretically it may be due to alterations in gastric pH. If these drugs must be used together, give glipizide at least 2 hours prior to the antacid. Consider closely monitoring blood glucose concentrations.
Glyburide: (Moderate) Antacids have been reported to increase the absorption of non-micronized glyburide, enhancing their hypoglycemic effects. Although the exact mechanism is not known, theoretically it may be due to alterations in gastric pH. If antacids must be used while a patient is taking glyburide, give the glyburide at least 2 hours prior to the antacid. Consider closely monitoring blood glucose concentrations.
Glyburide; Metformin: (Moderate) Antacids have been reported to increase the absorption of non-micronized glyburide, enhancing their hypoglycemic effects. Although the exact mechanism is not known, theoretically it may be due to alterations in gastric pH. If antacids must be used while a patient is taking glyburide, give the glyburide at least 2 hours prior to the antacid. Consider closely monitoring blood glucose concentrations.
Guaifenesin; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Hydrocodone; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Hydroxychloroquine: (Moderate) Hydroxychloroquine absorption may be reduced by antacids as has been observed with the structurally similar chloroquine. Administer hydroxychloroquine and antacids at least 4 hours apart. Of note, a study demonstrated no significant difference in hydroxychloroquine serum concentration in patients taking concomitant antacids (n = 14) compared to those not taking antacids (n = 495).
Hyoscyamine; Methenamine; Methylene Blue; Phenyl Salicylate; Sodium Biphosphate: (Major) The therapeutic action of methenamine requires an acidic urine. Antacids containing alkalinizing agents such as sodium bicarbonate can alkalinize the urine, thereby decreasing the effectiveness of methenamine by increasing the amount of non-ionized drug available for renal tubular reabsorption. Increased urine alkalinity also can inhibit the conversion of methenamine to formaldehyde, which is the active bacteriostatic form; concurrent use of methenamine and urinary alkalizers is not recommended.
Ibandronate: (Moderate) Separate administration of oral ibandronate and aluminum hydroxide by at least 1 hour. Aluminum-containing antacids will interfere with the absorption of oral ibandronate.
Ibuprofen; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Indomethacin: (Moderate) Antacids may inhibit the oral absorption of indomethacin. Simultaneous administration should be avoided; separate dosing by at least 2 hours to limit an interaction.
Infigratinib: (Moderate) Separate the administration of infigratinib and locally acting antacids if concomitant use is necessary. Coadministration may decrease infigratinib exposure resulting in decreased efficacy. Administer infigratinib two hours before or after an antacid.
Iron Salts: (Moderate) Doses of antacids and iron should be taken as far apart as possible to minimize the potential for interaction. Antacids may decrease the absorption of oral iron preparations. At higher pH values, iron is more readily ionized to its ferric state and is more poorly absorbed.
Iron: (Moderate) Doses of antacids and iron should be taken as far apart as possible to minimize the potential for interaction. Antacids may decrease the absorption of oral iron preparations. At higher pH values, iron is more readily ionized to its ferric state and is more poorly absorbed.
Isoniazid, INH; Pyrazinamide, PZA; Rifampin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of antacids and rifampin may decrease the absorption of rifampin. Daily doses of rifampin should be given at least 1 hour before the ingestion of antacids.
Isoniazid, INH; Rifampin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of antacids and rifampin may decrease the absorption of rifampin. Daily doses of rifampin should be given at least 1 hour before the ingestion of antacids.
Itraconazole: (Moderate) When administering antacids with the 100 mg itraconazole capsule and 200 mg itraconazole tablet formulations, systemic exposure to itraconazole is decreased. Conversely, exposure to itraconazole is increased when antacids are administered with the 65 mg itraconazole capsule. Administer antacids at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after the 100 mg capsule or 200 mg tablet. Monitor for increased itraconazole-related adverse effects if antacids are administered with itraconazole 65 mg capsules.
Ketoconazole: (Moderate) Administer antacids at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after taking ketoconazole. Antacids can impair the absorption of ketoconazole.
Lactulose: (Major) In general, other laxatives should not be used concurrently with lactulose, especially during the initial phase of therapy for portal-systemic encephalopathy, because the loose stools resulting from their use may falsely suggest that adequate lactulose dosage has been achieved. Studies suggest that oral, nonabsorbable antacids and/or laxatives like magnesium hydroxide can interfere with the decrease in colon pH necessary for lactulose's action and these alterations may make it challenging to titrate an accurate dose of lactulose during treatment of hepatic encephalopathy.
Ledipasvir; Sofosbuvir: (Moderate) Separate administration of ledipasvir and antacids by at least 4 hours. Solubility of ledipasvir decreases as gastric pH increases; thus, simultaneous administration of these drugs may result in lower ledipasvir plasma concentrations.
Lesinurad; Allopurinol: (Minor) Aluminum hydroxide decreases the oral bioavailability of allopurinol, possibly by inhibiting gastrointestinal absorption of allopurinol. Allopurinol should be administered no less than 3 hours before doses of aluminum hydroxide to avoid inhibition of allopurinol absorption.
Levofloxacin: (Moderate) Administer products that contain aluminum hydroxide at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after orally administered levofloxacin. Levofloxacin absorption may be reduced as quinolone antibiotics can chelate with divalent or trivalent cations. Chelation of divalent cations with levofloxacin is less than with other quinolones. Examples of compounds that may interfere with quinolone bioavailability include antacids that contain aluminum hydroxide.
Levoketoconazole: (Moderate) Administer antacids at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after taking ketoconazole. Antacids can impair the absorption of ketoconazole.
Levonorgestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous Bisglycinate: (Moderate) Doses of antacids and iron should be taken as far apart as possible to minimize the potential for interaction. Antacids may decrease the absorption of oral iron preparations. At higher pH values, iron is more readily ionized to its ferric state and is more poorly absorbed.
Levonorgestrel; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous Fumarate: (Moderate) Doses of antacids and iron should be taken as far apart as possible to minimize the potential for interaction. Antacids may decrease the absorption of oral iron preparations. At higher pH values, iron is more readily ionized to its ferric state and is more poorly absorbed.
Levothyroxine: (Moderate) To minimize an interaction, administer thyroid hormones at least 4 hours before or after antacids or other drugs containing aluminum hydroxide. Aluminum hydroxide, often found in antacids, interferes with the intestinal absorption of thyroid hormones. Gastric acidity is an essential requirement for adequate absorption of levothyroxine.
Levothyroxine; Liothyronine (Porcine): (Moderate) To minimize an interaction, administer thyroid hormones at least 4 hours before or after antacids or other drugs containing aluminum hydroxide. Aluminum hydroxide, often found in antacids, interferes with the intestinal absorption of thyroid hormones. Gastric acidity is an essential requirement for adequate absorption of levothyroxine.
Levothyroxine; Liothyronine (Synthetic): (Moderate) To minimize an interaction, administer thyroid hormones at least 4 hours before or after antacids or other drugs containing aluminum hydroxide. Aluminum hydroxide, often found in antacids, interferes with the intestinal absorption of thyroid hormones. Gastric acidity is an essential requirement for adequate absorption of levothyroxine.
Liothyronine: (Moderate) To minimize an interaction, administer thyroid hormones at least 4 hours before or after antacids or other drugs containing aluminum hydroxide. Aluminum hydroxide, often found in antacids, interferes with the intestinal absorption of thyroid hormones. Gastric acidity is an essential requirement for adequate absorption of levothyroxine.
Loratadine; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Mefenamic Acid: (Moderate) Ingestion of mefenamic acid with antacids is not recommended. Administration with an antacid containing 1.7 grams of magnesium hydroxide resulted in a 36 percent increase in the area under the time versus concentration curve of mefenamic acid.
Mefloquine: (Moderate) Antacids, H2-blockers, and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) may increase plasma concentrations of mefloquine. In a small study involving 6 healthy subjects and 6 peptic ulcer patients, cimetidine increased the Cmax and AUC of mefloquine. In the study, the pharmacokinetics of mefloquine were determined after receiving a single oral mefloquine 500 mg dose alone and after 3-days of cimetidine 400 mg PO bid. In both healthy subjects and peptic ulcer patients, Cmax was increased 42.4% and 20.5%, respectively. The AUC was increased by 37.5% in both groups. Elimination half-life, total clearance, and volume of distribution were not significantly affected. An increase in adverse reactions was not noted. Patients on chronic mefloquine therapy might be at increased risk of adverse reactions, especially in patients with a neurological or psychiatric history.
Mesalamine, 5-ASA: (Moderate) Do not coadminister mesalamine extended-release capsules (Apriso) with antacids. Apriso is a pH-dependent, delayed-release capsule product with an enteric coating that dissolves at a pH of at least 6. Other mesalamine products do not have an interaction with antacids.
Methenamine: (Major) The therapeutic action of methenamine requires an acidic urine. Antacids containing alkalinizing agents such as sodium bicarbonate can alkalinize the urine, thereby decreasing the effectiveness of methenamine by increasing the amount of non-ionized drug available for renal tubular reabsorption. Increased urine alkalinity also can inhibit the conversion of methenamine to formaldehyde, which is the active bacteriostatic form; concurrent use of methenamine and urinary alkalizers is not recommended.
Methenamine; Sodium Acid Phosphate: (Major) The therapeutic action of methenamine requires an acidic urine. Antacids containing alkalinizing agents such as sodium bicarbonate can alkalinize the urine, thereby decreasing the effectiveness of methenamine by increasing the amount of non-ionized drug available for renal tubular reabsorption. Increased urine alkalinity also can inhibit the conversion of methenamine to formaldehyde, which is the active bacteriostatic form; concurrent use of methenamine and urinary alkalizers is not recommended.
Methenamine; Sodium Acid Phosphate; Methylene Blue; Hyoscyamine: (Major) The therapeutic action of methenamine requires an acidic urine. Antacids containing alkalinizing agents such as sodium bicarbonate can alkalinize the urine, thereby decreasing the effectiveness of methenamine by increasing the amount of non-ionized drug available for renal tubular reabsorption. Increased urine alkalinity also can inhibit the conversion of methenamine to formaldehyde, which is the active bacteriostatic form; concurrent use of methenamine and urinary alkalizers is not recommended.
Methenamine; Sodium Salicylate: (Major) The therapeutic action of methenamine requires an acidic urine. Antacids containing alkalinizing agents such as sodium bicarbonate can alkalinize the urine, thereby decreasing the effectiveness of methenamine by increasing the amount of non-ionized drug available for renal tubular reabsorption. Increased urine alkalinity also can inhibit the conversion of methenamine to formaldehyde, which is the active bacteriostatic form; concurrent use of methenamine and urinary alkalizers is not recommended.
Minocycline: (Moderate) Separate administration of minocycline and antacids by 2 to 3 hours. Coadministration may impair absorption of minocycline which may decrease its efficacy.
Moxifloxacin: (Major) Administer oral moxifloxacin at least 4 hours before or 8 hours after products that contain aluminum hydroxide. Moxifloxacin absorption may be reduced as quinolone antibiotics can chelate with divalent or trivalent cations. Examples of compounds that may interfere with quinolone bioavailability include antacids that contain aluminum hydroxide.
Mycophenolate: (Major) Coadministration of mycophenolate mofetil with antacids decreases the bioavailability of mycophenolate mofetil. Aluminum/magnesium hydroxide antacids decrease the AUC of mycophenolic acid by about 17% when given as mycophenolate mofetil. Decreased absorption of mycophenolate (possible chelation) is the likely etiology for reduced systemic exposure. If antacids and mycophenolate need to be used together, separate administration times are recommended (do not give simultaneously).
Naproxen: (Minor) Concomitant administration of antacids can delay the absorption of naproxen. Periodic antacid use should not be problematic as long as the antacid and enteric-coated naproxen administration are separated by at least 2 hours.
Naproxen; Esomeprazole: (Minor) Concomitant administration of antacids can delay the absorption of naproxen. Periodic antacid use should not be problematic as long as the antacid and enteric-coated naproxen administration are separated by at least 2 hours.
Naproxen; Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) Concomitant administration of antacids can delay the absorption of naproxen. Periodic antacid use should not be problematic as long as the antacid and enteric-coated naproxen administration are separated by at least 2 hours. (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Neratinib: (Major) Administer neratinib at least 3 hours after administration of antacids if concomitant use is necessary due to decreased absorption and systemic exposure of neratinib; the solubility of neratinib decreases with increasing pH of the GI tract. The efficacy of neratinib may be decreased.
Nilotinib: (Moderate) If concomitant use of these agents is necessary, administer the antacid approximately 2 hours before or approximately 2 hours after the nilotinib dose. Nilotinib displays pH-dependent solubility with decreased solubility at a higher pH; therefore, concomitant use of nilotinib and antacids may result in decreased bioavailability of nilotinib. In a study in healthy subjects, there was no significant change in nilotinib pharmacokinetics when an antacid (aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide/simethicone) was administered approximately 2 hours before or approximately 2 hours after a single 400-mg nilotinib dose.
Norethindrone Acetate; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous fumarate: (Moderate) Doses of antacids and iron should be taken as far apart as possible to minimize the potential for interaction. Antacids may decrease the absorption of oral iron preparations. At higher pH values, iron is more readily ionized to its ferric state and is more poorly absorbed.
Norethindrone; Ethinyl Estradiol; Ferrous fumarate: (Moderate) Doses of antacids and iron should be taken as far apart as possible to minimize the potential for interaction. Antacids may decrease the absorption of oral iron preparations. At higher pH values, iron is more readily ionized to its ferric state and is more poorly absorbed.
Octreotide: (Moderate) Coadministration of oral octreotide with antacids may require increased doses of octreotide. Coadministration of oral octreotide with drugs that alter the pH of the upper GI tract, including antacids, may alter the absorption of octreotide and lead to a reduction in bioavailability.
Ofloxacin: (Moderate) Administer products that contain aluminum hydroxide at least 2 hours before or 2 hours after ofloxacin. Ofloxacin absorption may be reduced as quinolone antibiotics can chelate with divalent or trivalent cations. Examples of compounds that may interfere with quinolone bioavailability include antacids that contain aluminum hydroxide.
Omadacycline: (Moderate) Separate administration of omadacycline and antacids by 4 hours. Coadministration may impair absorption of omadacycline which may decrease its efficacy.
Pancrelipas

e: (Major) The effectiveness of gastrointestinal enzymes can be diminished with concurrent administration of antacids. In-vitro studies suggest that calcium and magnesum cations exert their deleterious effect on replacement enzyme therapy by formation of poorly soluble calcium or magnesium soaps and precipitation of glycine conjugated bile salts.
Pazopanib: (Moderate) Separate administration of pazopanib and antacids by several hours if coadministration is necessary in order to avoid a reduction in pazopanib exposure, which may decrease efficacy.
Penicillamine: (Moderate) Because penicillamine chelates heavy metals, it is possible that antacids could reduce penicillamine bioavailability, which can decrease the therapeutic effects of penicillamine. Simultaneous administration should be avoided; separate dosing by at least 2 hours to limit an interaction.
Pexidartinib: (Moderate) Administer pexidartinib 2 hours before or after locally-acting antacids as concurrent administration may reduce pexidartinib exposure. Although the effects of locally-acting antacids on pexidartinib pharmacokinetics have not been studied, other acid-reducing agents have been shown to decrease pexidartinib exposure by 50%.
Phenytoin: (Moderate) Because the absorption of phenytoin suspension can be reduced by antacids containing magnesium, aluminum, or calcium, administration at the same time of day should be avoided when possible. Ingestion times of phenytoin capsules and calcium antacids should be staggered in patients with low serum phenytoin levels to prevent absorption difficulties. Studies evaluating the effects of magnesium-aluminium antacids on the absorption of phenytoin capsules or tablets have yielded conflicting results. Nevertheless, serum phenytoin levels and clinical response should be closely monitored if these agents are co-administered. The mechanisms by which antacids reduce phenytoin absorption may involve increased gastric transit time, chelation, adsorption, and/or altered solubility. The oral absorption of phenytoin may be reduced by calcium carbonate (e.g., as found in antacids) or other calcium salts. Calcium products may form complexes with phenytoin that are nonabsorbable. Although the magnitude of the interaction is not great, an occasional patient may be affected and the interaction may lead to subtherapeutic phenytoin concentrations. Separating the administration of phenytoin and antacids or calcium salts by at least 2 hours will help minimize the possibility of interaction.
Phosphorus: (Moderate) The oral absorption of phosphorus is reduced by ingestion of aluminum-containing antacids (e.g., aluminum hydroxide). If the patient requires treatment with aluminum-containing antacids, it may be wise to separate the administration of phosphorus salts from the antacid. In some instances the administration of an aluminum hydroxide product is used therapeutically (e.g., uremia) to decrease serum phosphorus levels, so the administration of phosphorus supplements would dynamically counteract the intended use of these drugs in these settings, assuming hypophosphatemia is not present.
Polyethylene Glycol; Electrolytes; Bisacodyl: (Minor) The concomitant use of bisacodyl tablets with antacids can cause the enteric coating of the bisacody tablet to dissolve prematurely, leading to possible gastric irritation or dyspepsia. Avoid antacids within 1 hour before or after the bisacodyl dosage.
Polysaccharide-Iron Complex: (Moderate) Doses of antacids and iron should be taken as far apart as possible to minimize the potential for interaction. Antacids may decrease the absorption of oral iron preparations. At higher pH values, iron is more readily ionized to its ferric state and is more poorly absorbed.
Potassium Bicarbonate: (Major) Avoid coadministration of aluminum hydroxide with citrate salts due to the potential for increased absorption of aluminum. Patients at increased risk of aluminum accumulation include patients with renal impairment or renal failure.
Potassium Chloride: (Major) Avoid coadministration of aluminum hydroxide with citrate salts due to the potential for increased absorption of aluminum. Patients at increased risk of aluminum accumulation include patients with renal impairment or renal failure.
Potassium Citrate: (Contraindicated) Avoid coadministration of antacids with citrate salts since increased absorption of aluminum can occur. In addition, some antacids like calcium carbonate, share the potential with the citrate salts for development of metabolic alkalosis, when given in higher dosage. (Major) Avoid coadministration of aluminum hydroxide with citrate salts due to the potential for increased absorption of aluminum. Patients at increased risk of aluminum accumulation include patients with renal impairment or renal failure.
Potassium Citrate; Citric Acid: (Major) Avoid coadministration of aluminum hydroxide with citrate salts due to the potential for increased absorption of aluminum. Patients at increased risk of aluminum accumulation include patients with renal impairment or renal failure.
Propranolol: (Moderate) Antacids may reduce the absorption of propranolol. The need to stagger doses of propranolol has not been established, but may be prudent. Monitor clinical response, and adjust propranolol dosage if needed to attain therapeutic goals.
Propranolol; Hydrochlorothiazide, HCTZ: (Moderate) Antacids may reduce the absorption of propranolol. The need to stagger doses of propranolol has not been established, but may be prudent. Monitor clinical response, and adjust propranolol dosage if needed to attain therapeutic goals.
Pseudoephedrine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Pseudoephedrine; Triprolidine: (Minor) It appears that antacids containing aluminum hydroxide may increase pseudoephedrine plasma concentrations. This interaction can be avoided by separating the administration of pseudoephedrine and antacids by 1 to 2 hours. If aluminum-based antacids are used on a regular basis, an alternative to pseudoephedrine may be considered.
Quinidine: (Major) Alkalinizing agents such as antacids can increase renal tubular reabsorption of quinidine by alkalinizing the urine; higher quinidine serum concentrations and quinidine toxicity are possible.
Quinine: (Major) Antacids may delay or decrease the absorption of quinine.
Raltegravir: (Major) Coadministration or staggered administration of aluminum and/or magnesium-containing antacids is not recommended during treatment with raltegravir. Coadministration may result in decreased plasma concentrations of raltegravir, which may lead to HIV treatment failure or the development of viral resistance. In a drug interaction study, the AUC for raltegravir was decreased by 49% (90% CI, 35% to 60%), 51% (90% CI, 33% to 65%), and 30% (90% CI, 4% to 50%), when administered with, 2 hours before, and 2 hours after aluminum/magnesium hydroxide antacids, respectively.
Rifampin: (Moderate) Concomitant use of antacids and rifampin may decrease the absorption of rifampin. Daily doses of rifampin should be given at least 1 hour before the ingestion of antacids.
Rilpivirine: (Moderate) Concurrent administration of rilpivirine and antacids may significantly decrease rilpivirine plasma concentrations, potentially resulting in treatment failure. To decrease the risk of virologic failure, avoid use of antacids for at least 2 hours before and at least 4 hours after administering rilpivirine.
Riociguat: (Major) Separate administration of riociguat from antacids by at least 1 hour. Antacids such as aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide decrease riociguat absorption.
Risedronate: (Moderate) Separate administration of oral risedronate and aluminum hydroxide by at least 2 hours. Aluminum-containing antacids will interfere with the absorption of oral risedronate.
Rosuvastatin: (Moderate) Coadministration of rosuvastatin with antacids has reduced rosuvastatin plasma concentrations by 54%. When the antacid is given 2 hours after rosuvastatin, no significant change in rosuvastatin plasma concentrations is observed.
Rosuvastatin; Ezetimibe: (Moderate) Coadministration of rosuvastatin with antacids has reduced rosuvastatin plasma concentrations by 54%. When the antacid is given 2 hours after rosuvastatin, no significant change in rosuvastatin plasma concentrations is observed. (Minor) Antacids may decrease the peak plasma concentration (Cmax) of total ezetimibe by 30%. The effect of the antacids in this regard is not expected to have a significant effect on the ability of ezetimibe to lower cholesterol. However, to limit any potential interaction, it would be prudent to administer ezetimibe at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after administering antacids.
Sarecycline: (Major) Separate administration of sarecycline and antacids by 2 to 3 hours. Coadministration may impair absorption of sarecycline which may decrease its efficacy.
Selpercatinib: (Major) Avoid coadministration of selpercatinib with antacids due to the risk of decreased selpercatinib exposure which may reduce its efficacy. If concomitant use is unavoidable, take selpercatinib 2 hours before or 2 hours after administration of antacids. Coadministration with acid-reducing agents decreases selpercatinib plasma concentrations.
Sodium Citrate; Citric Acid: (Contraindicated) Avoid coadministration of antacids with citrate salts since increased absorption of aluminum can occur. In addition, some antacids like calcium carbonate, share the potential with the citrate salts for development of metabolic alkalosis, when given in higher dosage.
Sodium Ferric Gluconate Complex; ferric pyrophosphate citrate: (Moderate) Doses of antacids and iron should be taken as far apart as possible to minimize the potential for interaction. Antacids may decrease the absorption of oral iron preparations. At higher pH values, iron is more readily ionized to its ferric state and is more poorly absorbed.
Sodium Fluoride: (Moderate) Absorption of sodium fluoride may be reduced by concomitant use of antacids that contain aluminum. An interval of at least 2 hours is advisable between administration of sodium fluoride and aluminum hydroxide.
Sodium Phenylbutyrate; Taurursodiol: (Major) Avoid coadministration of aluminum-based antacids and taurursodiol, and consider other acid lowering medications. Coadministration may decrease the absorption of taurursodiol.
Sodium Polystyrene Sulfonate: (Major) Simultaneous oral administration of cation-donating antacids or laxatives may reduce the potassium exchange capability of sodium polystyrene sulfonate. Examples of cation-donating antacids and laxatives include aluminum hydroxide, calcium carbonate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium citrate, and magnesium hydroxide. Patients who received concomitant oral sodium polystyrene sulfonate and non-absorbable cation-donating antacids and laxatives have developed systemic alkalosis. Intestinal obstruction due to concretions of aluminum hydroxide when used in combination with sodium polystyrene sulfonate has also been reported. One case of grand mal seizure has been reported in a patient with chronic hypocalcemia of renal failure who was given sodium polystyrene with magnesium hydroxide as laxative. Normally, antacids like magnesium hydroxide and calcium carbonate neutralize hydrochloric acid in the stomach, forming magnesium chloride and calcium chloride. As these compounds enter the small intestine, they react with bicarbonate, forming magnesium carbonate and calcium carbonate, which are insoluble. If polystyrene is administered, it blocks this reaction by binding to the magnesium and calcium ions before they can react with the bicarbonate. More hydrogen ions are lost from the stomach than are lost from the intestine, resulting in metabolic alkalosis. Rectal administration of sodium polystyrene sulfonate may reduce the severity of these interactions.
Sofosbuvir; Velpatasvir: (Moderate) Separate the use of antacids and velpatasvir administration by 4 hours. Velpatasvir solubility decreases as pH increases; therefore, drugs that increase gastric pH are expected to decrease the concentrations of velpatasvir, potentially resulting in loss of antiviral efficacy.
Sofosbuvir; Velpatasvir; Voxilaprevir: (Moderate) Separate the use of antacids and velpatasvir administration by 4 hours. Velpatasvir solubility decreases as pH increases; therefore, drugs that increase gastric pH are expected to decrease the concentrations of velpatasvir, potentially resulting in loss of antiviral efficacy.
Sotalol: (Moderate) Coadministration of antacids with sotalol reduces the Cmax and AUC of sotalol by 26% and 20%, respectively. This interaction results in a 25% reduction in the bradycardic effect of sotalol (measured at rest). Antacid administration two hours after the sotalol dose does not alter sotalol pharmacokinetics or pharmacodynamics. Instruct patients to avoid using antacids containing aluminum hydroxide or magnesium hydroxide within 2 hours of taking sotalol.
Sotorasib: (Moderate) Avoid coadministration of sotorasib and gastric-reducing agents, such as antacids. Coadministration may decrease sotorasib exposure resulting in decreased efficacy. If coadministration with antacids is necessary, administer sotorasib 4 hours before or 10 hours after an antacid.
Sparsentan: (Moderate) Administer sparsentan 2 hours before or after antacids. Simultaneous coadministration may decrease sparsentan exposure and efficacy. Medications that affect gastric pH may reduce sparsentan absorption.
Sucralfate: (Moderate) Antacids can interfere with the binding capacity of sucralfate to the GI mucosa, decreasing its effectiveness. Antacids should not be administered within 30 minutes of sucralfate. In addition, antacids or other aluminum-containing agents should be used cautiously with sucralfate in patients with chronic renal failure due to the aluminum content of sucralfate and the potential for aluminum toxicity.
Sumatriptan; Naproxen: (Minor) Concomitant administration of antacids can delay the absorption of naproxen. Periodic antacid use should not be problematic as long as the antacid and enteric-coated naproxen administration are separated by at least 2 hours.
Tacrolimus: (Major) Monitor tacrolimus whole blood trough concentration and reduce tacrolimus dose if needed during concurrent use of antacids. Magnesium and aluminum hydroxide antacids may increase the blood concentration of tacrolimus. In a single-dose crossover study in healthy volunteers, coadministration of tacrolimus and magnesium-aluminum-hydroxide resulted in a mean AUC increase of 21% and a 10% decrease in the mean tacrolimus Cmax, compared to tacrolimus administration alone.
Tetracycline: (Moderate) Separate administration of tetracycline and antacids by 2 to 3 hours. Coadministration may impair absorption of tetracycline which may decrease its efficacy.
Thyroid hormones: (Moderate) To minimize an interaction, administer thyroid hormones at least 4 hours before or after antacids or other drugs containing aluminum hydroxide. Aluminum hydroxide, often found in antacids, interferes with the intestinal absorption of thyroid hormones. Gastric acidity is an essential requirement for adequate absorption of levothyroxine.
Ticlopidine: (Major) Administration of ticlopidine after antacids resulted in an 18% decrease in plasma levels of ticlopidine. Staggering the times of administration may avoid this pharmacokinetic interaction.
Tipranavir: (Moderate) Concurrent administration of tipranavir and ritonavir with antacids results in decreased tipranavir concentrations. Administer tipranavir and ritonavir 2 hours before or 1 hour after antacids.
Tramadol; Acetaminophen: (Minor) Antacids can delay the oral absorption of acetaminophen, but the interactions are not likely to be clinically significant as the extent of acetaminophen absorption is not appreciably affected.
Trospium: (Moderate) Antacids may inhibit the oral absorption of antimuscarinics. Simultaneous oral administration should be avoided when feasible; separate dosing by at least 2 hours to limit an interaction.
Ursodeoxycholic Acid, Ursodiol: (Moderate) Aluminum hydroxide based antacids have been shown to adsorb bile acids in vitro and are expected to interfere with the efficacy of ursodeoxycholic acid, ursodiol. To minimize drug interactions, administer ursodiol at least 1 hour before or at least 2 hours after the aluminum-based antacid.
Valproic Acid, Divalproex Sodium: (Minor) Antacids containing the combination of magnesium and aluminum hydroxide have been shown to increase valproic acid AUC by an average of 12%. Although this finding is of marginal clinical significance, patients should be monitored for adverse effects in this situation while taking valproic acid and aluminum hydroxide.

Aluminum/Aluminum Hydroxide Oral Susp: 5mL, 320mg

Consult package label; maximum daily dosage is age and product specific. Do not exceed recommended daily dosage in any 24 hour period.

Following oral administration, aluminum hydroxide is slowly solubilized in the stomach and reacts with hydrochloric acid to produce aluminum chloride and water. This chemical reaction neutralizes gastric acid secretions and increases the gastric pH. The increase in gastric pH inhibits the proteolytic action of pepsin, an effect that is particularly important in patients with peptic ulcer disease. The increased pH and decreased pepsin production helps in the healing of peptic ulcers. While gastric acids are neutralized, the actual secretion of acid is not effected. The chloride salt of aluminum produced in the stomach reacts with bicarbonate in the small intestine to minimize the risk of systemic alkalosis. Compared with magnesium hydroxide, aluminum hydroxide reacts slowly with bicarbonate because it dissolves slowly in the stomach, which adds to its longer duration of action. In the management of esophageal reflux, the increase in gastric pH produced by antacids, including aluminum hydroxide, causes an increase in the lower esophageal sphincter pressure. This increased pressure minimizes the amount of reflux to the esophagus.
 
Aluminum hydroxide complexes with dietary phosphate to form the insoluble aluminum phosphate, which is excreted in the feces. This reduces the amount of phosphate that is available for absorption. For aluminum hydroxide to be beneficial in preventing phosphate absorption, it must be administered with meals or snacks. This hypophosphatemic effect of aluminum hydroxide has been used in the management of hyperphosphatemia associated with chronic renal insufficiency, hyperparathyroidism secondary to chronic hemodialysis, and calcinosis universalis; however, calcium carbonate is the preferred treatment for these conditions. Decreased phosphate absorption causes an increase in calcium absorption.

Aluminum hydroxide is administered orally. Aluminum hydroxide is slowly solubilized in the stomach and reacts with hydrochloric acid in the stomach to produce aluminum chloride and water. About 17—30% of the aluminum chloride is absorbed and is rapidly excreted by the kidneys in patients with normal renal function. In the small intestine, aluminum chloride is rapidly converted to insoluble, poorly absorbed basic aluminum salts. Aluminum also combines with dietary phosphate in the intestine forming insoluble, nonabsorbable aluminum phosphate which is excreted in the feces. The aluminum that is not absorbed remains in the GI tract and is excreted in the feces.

Pregnancy

When used occasionally at recommended doses, aluminum containing antacids have not been found to produce teratogenic effects and are generally considered safe during pregnancy, provided the pregnant woman does not have concerns with renal dysfunction. It may be advisable to consider a combination antacid rather than aluminum hydroxide alone for relief of dyspepsia or pyrosis during pregnancy as the combination antacids allow for comparative relief of symptoms at lower doses. Guidelines recommend a trial of lifestyle modifications as first-line therapy for heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), followed by antacids. For ongoing symptoms, histamine type 2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs) can be used to control heartburn symptoms in pregnancy. Proton pump inhibitors should be reserved for patients who fail H2RA therapy.

When chronic use and high doses are avoided, aluminum hydroxide appears to be safe and effective for the occasional relief of dyspepsia and pyrosis in the mother during breast-feeding. Aluminum does not enter breast milk significantly, and no problems have been reported during breast-feeding. It may be advisable to consider a combination antacid rather than aluminum hydroxide alone for relief of dyspepsia or pyrosis while breast-feeding, as the combination antacids allow for comparative relief of symptoms at lower doses.