Other Names/Brands

Promag, Talsil, Altacite, and Gastrinal HD

Mechanism of Action

Hydrotalcite works by neutralizing excess stomach acid in the digestive tract. This medication belongs to the antacid class and contains magnesium and aluminum compounds.

When consumed, hydrotalcite reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach to form a neutral salt and water, thereby reducing acidity and relieving symptoms such as heartburn, bloating, and heartburn.

Hydrotalcite also has the ability to form a protective layer on the stomach lining, helping prevent further irritation from stomach acid. This medication is commonly used to treat stomach disorders such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, or acid reflux.

Indications

Hydrotalcite is indicated for the treatment of digestive tract disorders caused by excess stomach acid. This medication is used to relieve symptoms such as heartburn, bloating, nausea, heartburn, and gastroesophageal reflux.

Hydrotalcite is also used as an adjunct therapy for conditions such as gastritis, peptic ulcers, and duodenal ulcers. With its antacid properties, hydrotalcite helps neutralize stomach acid and provides a protective effect on the gastric mucosa.

Contraindications

Hydrotalcite is contraindicated in patients with a history of allergies to any of the drug's components, such as aluminum or magnesium. This medication is also not recommended for use in patients with severe kidney impairment, as it can cause magnesium or aluminum accumulation in the body, which can cause serious side effects.

Hydrotalcite should not be given to children without medical supervision and should be used with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Concomitant use with other medications is also important, as hydrotalcite can interfere with the absorption of certain medications in the gastrointestinal tract.

Side Effects

Side effects of hydrotalcite are generally mild and rare when used appropriately. Some possible side effects include constipation or diarrhea, depending on the balance of aluminum and magnesium in the medication.

With long-term use or high doses, especially in patients with kidney problems, aluminum or magnesium can accumulate in the body, which can lead to electrolyte imbalances, muscle weakness, or nerve dysfunction. Allergic reactions such as skin rashes, itching, or swelling can also occur, although very rarely.

Preparations

Hydrotalcite is available in various dosage forms, allowing for easy use tailored to patient needs. The most common dosage forms are chewable tablets and oral suspensions. Chewable tablets are often used because they are convenient and require no water, making them suitable for rapid relief of acid reflux symptoms.

Oral suspensions, which are thick liquids, provide a faster effect because they are more easily absorbed by the body. Each preparation contains a specific dose of the active ingredient Hydrotalcite and is typically taken after meals or when symptoms appear. The choice of dosage form depends on patient preference and the recommendations of healthcare professionals.

Dosage

The dosage of hydrotalcite varies depending on the dosage form and the patient's condition. However, the general recommended dose for adults is 500–1000 mg taken 3 to 4 times daily. The medication should be taken 1–2 hours before or after meals and at bedtime.

For the chewable tablet, patients are advised to chew the tablet until it disintegrates before swallowing, while for the suspension, the medication should be shaken thoroughly to mix thoroughly. This medication should be used according to a doctor's instructions or the instructions on the packaging and is not recommended for long-term use without medical supervision. The dosage for children should be adjusted by a healthcare professional and administered with caution.

Safety of Drugs

In general, hydrotalcite is classified as a restricted over-the-counter medication that can be used to treat acid reflux symptoms if used according to the directions. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), hydrotalcite is included in the antacid category, which is generally considered safe for short-term use at recommended doses.

For use in pregnant women, hydrotalcite is generally considered safe because it is not known to cause harmful effects on the fetus, but it should still be used only under a doctor's recommendation. In breastfeeding women, this medication can also be used with caution because systemic absorption is very minimal, so the risk to the baby is considered low.

In patients with kidney disorders, the use of hydrotalcite must be closely monitored because aluminum and magnesium can accumulate in the body and cause toxic effects.

Drug Interactions

Hydrotalcite can interact with several other medications, particularly those whose absorption is affected by stomach acid levels. This medication can decrease the effectiveness of certain antibiotics, such as tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, and levofloxacin, when taken together, because it forms a complex that inhibits their absorption in the digestive tract.

Hydrotalcite can also affect the absorption of medications such as digoxin, isoniazid, and iron. Therefore, it is recommended to allow at least a two-hour gap between taking hydrotalcite and other medications.

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