Aluminium Hydroxide

Indications
Aluminium Hydroxide is indicated in Duodenal ulcer, Dyspepsia, Flatulence, Gastric Hyperacidity, Gastric ulcer, Gastritis, Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), Gastrointestinal hyperacidity, Heartburn, Heartburn & gastritis, Hyperacidity, Indigestion, Oesophagitis, Peptic ulcer disease, Stomach distension, Upper Gl bloating

Therapeutic Class
Antacids

Pharmacology
Alumunium hydroxide acts on the HCI in the stomach by neutralization, forming aluminium chloride salt and water.

Dosage & Administration
Usual Adult Dose: Up to 1 g daily.
Dyspepsia: 500 to 600 mg orally 4 to 6 times a day as needed, between meals and at bedtime.
Duodenal Ulcer: 500 to 1500 mg orally 4 to 6 times a day as needed, between meals and at bedtime.
Erosive Esophagitis: 500 to 1500 mg orally 4 to 6 times a day as needed, between meals and at bedtime.
Gastric Ulcer: 500 to 1500 mg orally 4 to 6 times a day as needed, between meals and at bedtime.
Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease: 500 to 1500 mg orally 4 to 6 times a day as needed, between meals and at bedtime.
Zollinger-Ellison Syndrome: 500 to 3600 mg orally 4 to 6 times a day as needed, between meals and at bedtime.
Hyperphosphatemia: 500 to 1000 mg orally 4 times a day, with meals and at bedtime. The dosage should be titrated to the serum phosphate level. Max Dosage: 10 g daily in divided doses may be taken with or without food.

Interaction
Enhanced absorption with citrates or ascorbic acid. Decreases absorption of allopurinol, tetracyclines, quinolones, cephalosporins, biphosphonate derivatives, corticosteroids, cyclosporin, delavirdine, Fe salts, imidazole antifungals, isoniazid, mycophenolate, penicillamine, phosphate supplements, phenytoin, phenothiazines, trientine.

Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to aluminium salts.

Side Effects
Constipation; intestinal obstruction (with large doses); phosphate depletion may occur with prolonged admin or large doses.

Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks

Precautions & Warnings
Chronic renal impairment; CHF; oedema; cirrhosis and low Na diets; patients with recent Gl haemorrhage. Administer 2-3 hrs before/after another medication to minimise drug interactions. Pregnancy and lactation