Co-magaldrox


  • Co-magaldrox is a combination antacid containing aluminium hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide.
  • Co-magaldrox is usually taken 20-60 minutes after meals and at bedtime or when required.
  • Do not take co-magaldrox at the same time as any other medicine, as it may stop the medicine working. Take other medicines at least one hour before or at least one hour after a dose of co-magaldrox.
Type of medicine Antacid
Used for Treatment of acid indigestion and heartburn
Also called Maalox®
Mucogel®
Available as Oral liquid

Co-magaldrox is a mixture of two antacids: aluminium hydroxide which is slow acting and magnesium hydroxide which is faster acting. These antacids work together to neutralise excess acid and protect the stomach lining from irritation.

Before taking co-magaldrox make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have kidney or liver problems.
  • If you have a condition called hypophosphataemia (a low level of phosphate in the blood).
  • If you have any of the following symptoms: bleeding, difficulty swallowing, being sick often, or weight loss.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor or pharmacist.
  • To prevent indigestion, take 10-20ml of co-magaldrox 20-60 minutes after meals and at bedtime or when required.
  • Maalox® is not recommended in children under 14 years old.
  • Mucogel® is not recommended in children under 12 years old.
  • Do not take co-magaldrox at the same time as any other medicine, as it may stop the medicine working. Take other medicines at least one hour before or at least one hour after a dose of co-magaldrox.
  • Do not smoke. Smoking increases the amount of acid produced by the stomach and will aggravate your condition.
  • Try to avoid foods that may upset your stomach, such as alcohol, citrus fruits and juices, drinks containing caffeine, tomatoes and spicy food.
  • If at any time you experience difficulty swallowing, sickness (with or without blood in the vomit), or you unexpectedly lose weight, speak with your doctor as soon as possible.
  • If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with this medicine.

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Possible side-effects What can I do if I experience this
Diarrhoea Drink plenty of water to replace any lost fluids
Constipation Try to eat a well balanced diet containing plenty of fibre and drink 6-8 glasses of water each day

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
  • One opened, use within 28 days.

  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

Further reading & references

  • British National Formulary; 62nd Edition (Sep 2011) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London
  • Manufacturer's PIL, Maalox® Suspension; Manufacturer's PIL, Maalox® Suspension, sanofi-aventis, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated December 2009.
Original Author: Helen Allen Current Version: Peer Reviewer: Dr Adrian Bonsall
Last Checked: 26/10/2011 Document ID: 3803  Version: 22 © EMIS

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.

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