Magión (Magaldrate)

Magión is an antacid that acts on excess gastric acid to relieve symptoms of upper‑gastrointestinal discomfort.

• Heartburn: Reduces burning sensation in the chest by neutralizing stomach acid.
• Dyspepsia: Alleviates upper abdominal fullness and discomfort associated with indigestion.
• Acid indigestion: Provides rapid relief from sour taste and bloating caused by excess acidity.
• Gastritis: Helps ease inflammation‑related pain by raising gastric pH.

• Magaldrate works by reacting directly with hydrochloric acid in the stomach. The compound dissociates into magnesium hydroxide and aluminum hydroxide, which combine with gastric acid to form magnesium chloride and aluminum chloride, respectively. This neutralization raises the pH of gastric contents, decreasing acidity and providing symptomatic relief. The dual‑action of magnesium and aluminum also offers a balanced antacid effect with reduced risk of constipation or diarrhea.

Magaldrate may cause adverse reactions, most of which are mild and transient.

Common Side Effects

• Constipation: Harder stools may develop due to the aluminum component, usually mild and self‑limiting.
• Diarrhea: The magnesium part can increase intestinal water content, leading to loose stools in some patients.
• Nausea: A transient feeling of stomach unease may be experienced after taking the antacid.
• Flatulence: Gas accumulation can cause bloating and belching in a minority of users.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Hypermagnesemia: Elevated magnesium levels, particularly in patients with renal dysfunction, may cause muscle weakness or cardiac effects.
• Metabolic alkalosis: Excessive neutralization of acid can raise systemic pH, leading to confusion or tremor.
• Allergic reaction: Rash, itching, swelling or hives may indicate hypersensitivity and require medical attention.
• Severe abdominal pain: Persistent or worsening pain could signal ulcer perforation or other serious gastrointestinal issues.

When using Magaldrate, certain precautions help ensure safe and effective therapy.

• Assess renal function: Adjust use in patients with impaired kidney function to avoid magnesium accumulation.
• Monitor electrolyte balance: Check serum magnesium and aluminum levels if therapy is prolonged.
• Use with caution in elderly: Age‑related renal decline may increase risk of adverse effects.
• Avoid concurrent antacids: Combining multiple acid‑neutralizing agents can lead to excessive alkalinity.
• Limit use in pregnancy: Consult a healthcare professional before use during pregnancy or lactation.
• Store at ambient temperature: Keep below 25°C in the original container, protected from moisture and direct sunlight.

Magaldrate can affect the absorption or action of several medicines; awareness of these interactions is important.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Tetracycline antibiotics: Antacid may chelate and markedly reduce absorption, compromising efficacy.
• Fluoroquinolones (e.g., ciprofloxacin): Co‑administration can lower antibiotic bioavailability.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• Iron supplements: Antacid may decrease iron absorption; separate dosing by at least 2 hours.
• Levothyroxine: Reduced thyroid hormone uptake may occur; monitor thyroid function tests.
• Digoxin: Altered absorption may affect serum levels; consider therapeutic drug monitoring.