Is Mylanta Available Over the Counter?
Yes, Mylanta (aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone) is available over the counter in the United States. 1
Product Details
The FDA drug label clearly indicates that Mylanta Maximum Strength is marketed as an OTC product for multi-symptom relief of heartburn, acid indigestion, and gas symptoms 1. The product contains:
- Aluminum hydroxide (antacid)
- Magnesium hydroxide (antacid)
- Simethicone (anti-gas agent)
The formulation is available in liquid suspension form (12 FL OZ/355mL) and works on contact to neutralize stomach acid 1.
Important Safety Considerations
Drug Interactions
Do not take Mylanta simultaneously with certain medications, particularly:
- Azithromycin - aluminum and magnesium-containing antacids reduce the rate of absorption 2, 3
- Doxycycline and other tetracyclines - antacids containing aluminum, calcium, or magnesium interfere with absorption 4
Separate administration by at least 1-2 hours when taking these medications 3.
Populations Requiring Caution
Avoid magnesium-based antacids (including Mylanta) in patients with chronic kidney disease due to risk of magnesium accumulation 5. The aluminum component also poses toxicity risks in renal insufficiency 6.
Use with caution during pregnancy, though antacids are commonly used for GERD symptoms in pregnancy 7. Recent evidence suggests minimal aluminum absorption from magaldrate-containing antacids in healthy women 8, but aluminum toxicity concerns exist with chronic use 6.
Clinical Impact
While Mylanta is readily accessible OTC, its clinical efficacy for specific conditions varies. For heartburn in pregnancy, moderate-quality evidence shows magnesium and aluminum hydroxide plus simethicone provides complete relief more often than placebo (RR 1.85,95% CI 1.36-2.50) 7.
The product is paraben-free and contains 0.2% alcohol 1. Patients should follow package directions and consult healthcare providers if symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks of regular use.