Aluminium hydroxide

About aluminium hydroxide

Aluminium hydroxide works as an antacid by neutralizing excess acid in the stomach.
It works as a phosphate binder by combining with phosphate in the stomach which allows it to be removed it from the body instead of being absorbed.

Before taking aluminium hydroxide

Before taking aluminium hydroxide make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you suffer from porphyria.
• If you suffer from kidney disease.
• If you suffer from hyperaluminaemia (too much aluminium in your blood) or hypophosphataemia (too few phosphates in your blood).
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
• If you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.

How to take aluminium hydroxide

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• To prevent indigestion, aluminium hydroxide is usually taken between meals and at bedtime.
• If you are taking aluminium hydroxide for phosphate binding, take it with your meals.
• Aluminium hydroxide can reduce the absorption of other medicines particularly some antibiotics and vitamins. If you are taking other medicines, leave two hours between taking aluminium hydroxide and the other medicines.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of aluminium hydroxide contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Where possible, take the container with you even if it is empty.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.

Getting the most from your treatment

• If you have been prescribed aluminium hydroxide for the management of kidney disease you must keep your regular appointment with your doctor so your progress can be monitored.

Can aluminium hydroxide cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if the following side effect continues or becomes troublesome.

How to store aluminium hydroxide

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

Important information about all medicines