Mylanta Dosage and Usage for Heartburn and Indigestion
For treating heartburn or indigestion, the recommended dosage of Mylanta (aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone) is 2-4 tablets chewed thoroughly or 2-4 teaspoons (10-20 mL) of liquid taken orally between meals and at bedtime, up to a maximum of 16 tablets or 16 teaspoons per day.
Formulations and Active Ingredients
Mylanta contains:
- Aluminum hydroxide
- Magnesium hydroxide
- Simethicone (anti-gas component)
Dosage Guidelines
Standard Dosing
- Tablets: 2-4 tablets chewed thoroughly
- Liquid: 2-4 teaspoons (10-20 mL)
- Frequency: Between meals and at bedtime
- Maximum daily dose: 16 tablets or 16 teaspoons (80 mL) per day
Timing Considerations
- Take 30-60 minutes after meals for optimal effect
- Take at bedtime to prevent nighttime symptoms
- Do not take within 2 hours of other medications as it may affect absorption
Efficacy and Mechanism of Action
Mylanta works through multiple mechanisms:
- Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide neutralize stomach acid
- Simethicone breaks down gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines
Research has demonstrated that aluminum/magnesium hydroxide formulations like Mylanta are effective at increasing both esophageal and gastric pH. In comparative studies, aluminum/magnesium hydroxide formulations showed:
- Faster onset of action compared to calcium carbonate in many patients
- Longer duration of action (82 minutes vs 60 minutes for calcium carbonate) 1
- Greater increase in esophageal pH compared to placebo
Special Populations
Pregnancy
- Generally considered safe for use during pregnancy
- Can be used for heartburn relief in all trimesters 2
- Magaldrate (a form of aluminum/magnesium hydroxide) shows minimal systemic absorption in women 3
Pediatric Use
- Not recommended for children under 12 years without medical supervision
- For children 12 years and older: use adult dosing
Precautions and Contraindications
- Renal impairment: Use with caution due to risk of magnesium accumulation
- Elderly patients: May be more sensitive to side effects
- Drug interactions: May interfere with absorption of certain medications including:
- Tetracycline antibiotics
- Fluoroquinolones
- Iron supplements
- Thyroid medications
Side Effects
Common side effects include:
- Chalky taste
- Constipation (from aluminum hydroxide)
- Diarrhea (from magnesium hydroxide)
- Nausea (uncommon)
Duration of Use
- For occasional heartburn: Use as needed
- For persistent symptoms (>2 weeks): Consult healthcare provider
- Not recommended for continuous use beyond 2 weeks without medical supervision
When to Consider Alternative Treatments
Consider H2-receptor antagonists or proton pump inhibitors if:
- Symptoms persist despite regular Mylanta use
- Symptoms are severe or occur frequently (>2 times per week)
- Signs of complications (difficulty swallowing, persistent pain, weight loss)
Storage
- Store at room temperature (59-86°F or 15-30°C)
- Keep tightly closed
- Protect from excessive heat and moisture
Mylanta is effective for short-term relief of heartburn and indigestion but should not replace evaluation and treatment of persistent or severe symptoms that may indicate more serious conditions.