Pedia-Lax Chewable

Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral. Magnesium is important for many systems in the body especially the muscles and nerves. Magnesium hydroxide also reduces stomach acid, and increases water in the intestines which may induce defecation.

Magnesium hydroxide is used as a laxative to relieve occasional constipation (irregularity) and as an antacid to relieve indigestion, sour stomach, and heartburn.

Magnesium hydroxide may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

The chewable tablet must be chewed before you swallow it.

Measure liquid medicine with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

You may need to shake the oral suspension before each use.

Do not use magnesium hydroxide for longer than 7 days without medical advice.

Call your doctor at once if you have if you have a sudden change in bowel habits that persists over a period of 2 weeks.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using magnesium hydroxide and call your doctor at once if you have:

• rectal bleeding;

• no bowel movement after using the medicine as a laxative;

• severe nausea, vomiting;

• slow heartbeats; or

• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out.

Common side effects may include:

• drowsiness; or

• flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling).

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Applies to magnesium hydroxide: compounding powder, oral concentrate, oral suspension, oral tablet chewable

Gastrointestinal

Diarrhea may occur and is occasionally severe enough to cause dehydration and electrolyte abnormalities.[Ref]

Gastrointestinal side effects have included diarrhea and minor gastrointestinal discomfort.[Ref]

General

General side effects have included signs and symptoms of hypermagnesemia. These have included hypotension, nausea, vomiting, EKG changes, respiratory depression, mental depression and coma.[Ref]

Magnesium may be systemically absorbed following administration of magnesium hydroxide. In patients with normal renal function, increased magnesium elimination in the urine occurs and no significant changes in serum magnesium levels would be expected. However, magnesium may accumulate in patients with renal insufficiency.[Ref]

Some side effects of Pedia-Lax Chewable Tablets may not be reported. Always consult your doctor or healthcare specialist for medical advice. You may also report side effects to the FDA.