From the Guidelines
Mylanta should be used with caution in pediatric patients due to limited historical evidence supporting its effectiveness in infants and children. According to the study published in Pediatrics in 2013 1, antacids like Mylanta can be used to directly buffer gastric acid in the esophagus or stomach to reduce heartburn and ideally allow mucosal healing of esophagitis. However, the study notes that there is limited historical evidence that on-demand use of antacids can lead to symptom relief in infants and children.
Key Points to Consider
- Mylanta is an over-the-counter antacid medication used to treat heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach.
- The medication contains aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone, which work together to neutralize stomach acid and relieve bloating and discomfort.
- For pediatric patients, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using Mylanta, as the study suggests that H2RAs and PPIs may be more effective in treating GERD in children 1.
- The study also highlights the importance of recognizing the differences between various formulations of H2RAs and their potential limitations, including the risk of tachyphylaxis and liver disease 1.
Recommendations
- Use Mylanta with caution in pediatric patients and only under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
- Consider alternative treatments, such as H2RAs or PPIs, which have shown to be more effective in treating GERD in children 1.
- Always follow the recommended dosage and administration instructions for Mylanta, and monitor for potential side effects, such as constipation or diarrhea.
From the Research
Mylanta Overview
- Mylanta is an antacid that contains aluminum/magnesium hydroxide, used to neutralize stomach acid and relieve heartburn and indigestion symptoms 2.
- The aluminum/magnesium hydroxide formulation in Mylanta has been shown to be effective in increasing esophageal and gastric pH, providing faster and longer-lasting relief from heartburn compared to calcium carbonate formulations 2.
Mechanism of Action
- Mylanta works by neutralizing stomach acid and reducing the amount of acid in the stomach, thereby relieving heartburn and indigestion symptoms 2.
- The aluminum/magnesium hydroxide in Mylanta has been shown to increase gastric pH, which can help to reduce the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) 2.
Comparison to Other Antacids
- Mylanta has been compared to other antacids, such as calcium carbonate, and has been shown to have a faster onset of action and longer duration of action in increasing esophageal pH 2.
- Calcium carbonate has been shown to cause an "acid rebound" effect, where the stomach produces more acid after the antacid has worn off, whereas Mylanta does not have this effect 2.
Uses and Interactions
- Mylanta is commonly used to treat heartburn, indigestion, and upset stomach, and can be used in conjunction with other medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), to treat GERD 3, 4.
- However, long-term use of antacids like Mylanta can interact with other medications and have adverse effects, such as altering the absorption of other medications or causing constipation or diarrhea 5.