Magnesium carbonate

About Magnesium carbonate

This belongs to the group of medicines known as antacids.

Magnesium carbonate is used to relieve acid indigestion, heartburn and other stomach upsets. Acid occurs naturally in the stomach and is produced in response to the presence of food, which it helps to break down and digest. When the acid goes back up the oesophagus (or gullet), the tube which leads to the stomach from the mouth, it causes indigestion, heartburn and other stomach upsets. Antacids neutralise this acid.

Magnesium carbonate is available in oral liquid form.

Before Taking Magnesium carbonate

Before taking magnesium carbonate make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from kidney problems
• if you suffer from 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 Magnesium carbonate

• Take your medication exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• To prevent indigestion, magnesium carbonate is usually taken between meals and at bedtime.
• Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of magnesium carbonate contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, 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

• Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside magnesium carbonate.
• Do not take magnesium carbonate 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 magnesium carbonate.

Can Magnesium carbonate cause problems?

This medicine is unlikely to cause any side effects except for an upset tummy, diarrhoea and occasional belching (excess wind).

If these becomes too troublesome or if you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

How to store Magnesium carbonate

• 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. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of them for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 21/02/2003