Aluminium Hydroxide: What It Is, How It Works, and Where It's Used

When you feel that burning feeling in your chest after eating, aluminium hydroxide, a common antacid that neutralizes stomach acid to provide quick relief. Also known as aluminum hydroxide, it’s one of the oldest and most widely used ingredients in over-the-counter stomach remedies. It doesn’t just mask symptoms—it actively cancels out excess acid in your stomach, making it a go-to for heartburn, indigestion, and even ulcers.

Aluminium hydroxide often shows up in combination with other compounds like magnesium hydroxide or calcium carbonate. These pairings help balance out side effects: aluminium can cause constipation, while magnesium tends to loosen stools. Together, they create a more stable effect. You’ll find it in brands like Maalox, Mylanta, and many generic store brands. It’s also used in some phosphate binders for people with kidney disease, helping control phosphorus levels in the blood by stopping the gut from absorbing too much of it.

It’s not a cure, though. Aluminium hydroxide works fast but doesn’t last long—usually just a few hours. That’s why it’s taken after meals or at bedtime, not all day long. Long-term use can lead to issues like low phosphate levels, muscle weakness, or even bone problems, especially in people with kidney trouble. That’s why doctors don’t recommend using it daily for more than two weeks without checking in. If you’re on other meds—like antibiotics, thyroid pills, or iron supplements—aluminium hydroxide can interfere with how well they’re absorbed. Timing matters: take it at least two hours before or after other drugs.

What You’ll Find in This Collection

This page brings together real, practical guides on medications and treatments that connect to aluminium hydroxide’s role in daily health. You’ll find posts on how antacids compare to other acid reducers, what to watch for when using them long-term, and how they fit into broader digestive care. There’s also coverage on drug interactions, side effect management, and how patients can make smarter choices when picking over-the-counter remedies. Whether you’re managing occasional heartburn or dealing with a chronic condition, these articles give you the facts without the fluff.