Maalox Dosage for Adults
The standard adult dosage of Maalox (aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide) is 10-20 mL or 1-2 tablets taken orally 4 times daily, typically between meals and at bedtime. This dosing regimen is based on established clinical practice for antacid administration.
Formulations and Dosing Details
Maalox is available in several formulations:
- Liquid suspension: 10-20 mL per dose
- Tablets: 1-2 tablets per dose
Timing of Administration
- Take between meals (1-3 hours after eating)
- Take at bedtime
- For maximum effectiveness, take 4 times daily
Specific Clinical Scenarios
For Acid Neutralization
- Standard regimen: 10-20 mL or 1-2 tablets 4 times daily
- For breakthrough symptoms, may take additional doses as needed, not exceeding the maximum daily recommendation
When Used with Other Medications
- Important: Maalox can significantly reduce the absorption of many medications, particularly antibiotics like fluoroquinolones
- When taking with moxifloxacin: Separate administration by at least 4 hours before or 2 hours after taking Maalox 1
- When taking with sparfloxacin: Separate administration by at least 4 hours 2
- When taking with trovafloxacin: Avoid concurrent administration; significant reduction (66%) in bioavailability was observed when taken together 3
Administration Considerations
Duration of Effect
- The acid-neutralizing effect typically lasts 20-40 minutes per dose
- Multiple daily doses are required for sustained effect
- No evidence of gastric acid rebound has been observed with standard dosing 4
Side Effects and Precautions
- Common side effects include chalky taste and possible constipation or diarrhea (depending on predominant component)
- Aluminum-containing antacids may cause constipation
- Magnesium-containing antacids may cause diarrhea
- For patients with constipation concerns, consider prophylactic stool softeners or stimulant laxatives 1
Special Populations
Elderly Patients
- Standard adult dosing applies
- Monitor more closely for constipation
- Consider reduced dosing frequency if renal function is impaired
Renal Impairment
- Use with caution in patients with significant renal impairment
- Aluminum and magnesium can accumulate in patients with poor renal function
Clinical Efficacy
Maalox has demonstrated efficacy comparable to H2-receptor antagonists in some studies:
- Similar effect to cimetidine 400 mg on postprandial duodenal acid load 5
- Effective for short-term treatment of duodenal ulcer at standard doses 5
- Maalox TC at 3 tablets twice daily has shown effectiveness in preventing duodenal ulcer relapse 5
Remember that while Maalox provides rapid symptom relief, it does not address underlying causes of acid-related disorders and should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment approach for chronic conditions.