Maximum Dose of Liquid Antacid for Adults and Children
For adults with normal kidney function, the maximum one-off dose of liquid antacid is 30 mL (approximately 2 tablespoons), while for children with normal kidney function, the maximum one-off dose is 0.5 mL/kg body weight.
Adult Dosing
- The maximum single dose of liquid antacid for adults with normal kidney function is 30 mL, which is equivalent to approximately 2 tablespoons 1
- This dose can neutralize gastric acid effectively while minimizing potential adverse effects such as electrolyte disturbances 1
- For adults with normal renal function, this dose can be repeated up to 4 times daily as needed, but should not exceed a total daily dose of 120 mL 1
Pediatric Dosing
- For children with normal kidney function, the maximum one-off dose of liquid antacid is 0.5 mL/kg body weight 2
- This weight-based dosing ensures appropriate acid neutralization while minimizing the risk of adverse effects in the pediatric population 2
- For example, a 20 kg child would receive a maximum single dose of 10 mL of liquid antacid 2
Considerations for Different Antacid Formulations
- Aluminum-containing antacids should be used with caution due to potential for accumulation, especially with repeated dosing 1
- Magnesium-containing antacids may cause diarrhea at higher doses 1
- Calcium carbonate formulations are generally well-tolerated but can cause constipation with repeated use 1
Special Considerations
- Patients with renal impairment require dose adjustment due to decreased elimination of antacid components, particularly aluminum and magnesium 3, 4
- Antacids can interact with many medications by altering gastric pH or forming complexes that reduce drug absorption 1
- Medications should be taken at least 2 hours before or after antacid administration to minimize potential drug interactions 1
Monitoring
- For single doses in patients with normal renal function, specific monitoring is not typically required 1
- With repeated dosing, monitor for potential adverse effects such as constipation (calcium-based), diarrhea (magnesium-based), or phosphate depletion (aluminum-based) 1
Common Pitfalls
- Exceeding recommended doses can lead to acid rebound effect, where stomach acid production increases after the antacid effect wears off 1
- Prolonged use of high-dose antacids may mask symptoms of more serious underlying conditions 1
- Sodium bicarbonate-containing antacids should be avoided for regular use due to potential for systemic alkalosis, especially in patients with heart failure or hypertension 1