Laxefin

Laxefin Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Laxefin is a brand name. Its generic name is Magnesium Hydroxide + Liquid Paraffin.

Introduction

Magnesium hydroxide is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Mg(OH)2. It is an odourless white solid, readily soluble in water, with a slightly alkaline taste. Magnesium hydroxide is used in a variety of applications, including as an antacid, a laxative, a water softener, and a food additive. It is also used in a number of industrial processes and manufacturing applications.

Uses

Magnesium Hydroxide is commonly used in the pharmaceutical industry as an antacid to neutralize stomach acid, and as a laxative to treat constipation. It is also found in many over-the-counter medications such as antacids, such as Pepto-Bismol and Gaviscon. It is also used in toothpastes and mouthwashes for its antimicrobial activity. In food, it is used as a whipping agent, an emulsifier, and a stabilizer.

Mechanism of Action

Magnesium hydroxide works primarily as an antacid by neutralizing stomach acid. This neutralization reduces the irritation and discomfort caused by excess stomach acid. It also functions as a laxative, stimulating the muscles of the small and large intestine to promote motility. Additionally, it helps to soften stools and increase the water content, to aid in easier bowel movements.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

The time it takes for magnesium hydroxide to work depends on both the form it is taken in, and on the person taking it. For an antacid, it should begin to work within a few minutes of taking it. For its use as a laxative, the results may take longer, depending on the user and the dose taken. Generally, Magnesium hydroxide should begin to take effect within 1-3 hours.

Absorption

Most of the ingested magnesium hydroxide is not absorbed in the stomach; instead, it passes into the small intestine. In the small intestine, the magnesium ions are absorbed, while the hydroxide ions are not absorbed.

Route of Elimination

Magnesium hydroxide is eliminated mostly through the kidneys. Some of the magnesium ions are also eliminated through the biliary tract.

Dosage

The usual dose of magnesium hydroxide is 2-4 g taken orally, 1-2 times daily as needed. Alternatively, 0.3-1 g taken orally 1-2 times daily as needed.

Administration

Magnesium hydroxide can be taken orally in the form of tablets or capsules, as a liquid suspension, or as a powder. It can also be taken rectally in the form of an enema.

Side Effects

Common side effects include abdominal cramps, nausea, and diarrhea. It may also cause electrolyte imbalances, including hypermagnesemia.

Toxicity

When taken as directed, magnesium hydroxide has a low toxicity profile. Rare cases of acute overdose of magnesium hydroxide can lead to electrolyte imbalances and depressed neurologic and cardiac function.

Precautions

Magnesium hydroxide should be used with caution in elderly individuals, those with kidney disease, and those with low potassium levels. It should be avoided by those taking calcium antagonists, cardiotonic glycosides, and other drugs known to interact with magnesium.

Interactions

Magnesium hydroxide interacts with a number of other medications, including calcium antagonists, cardiotonic glycosides, and some antibiotics. It can also interact with food, vitamins, and other minerals, so it is important to discuss any potential interactions with a doctor or pharmacist.

Disease Interactions

Magnesium hydroxide can interact with several diseases, including kidney disease, heart disease, and diabetes. It should not be used in those with advanced kidney failure, or in those taking medications that interact with magnesiumhydroxide.

Drug Interactions

Magnesium hydroxide can interact with several medications, including calcium antagonists, cardiotonic glycosides, and some antibiotics. It should not be used in those taking medications that interact with magnesium.

Food Interactions

Magnesium hydroxide can interact with some vitamins and minerals, including potassium, phosphorus, and calcium. It should not be taken at the same time as a meal that contains high quantities of any of these compounds.

Pregnancy Use

Magnesium hydroxide is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy. However, it is important to talk to a doctor before taking magnesium hydroxide during pregnancy, as there may be some potential side effects or interactions.

Lactation Use

Magnesium hydroxide can be used by breastfeeding mothers. However, it is important to talk to a doctor before taking magnesium hydroxide while breastfeeding, as it may pass into the milk and could have potential side effects.

Acute Overdose

An acute overdose of magnesium hydroxide can lead to electrolyte imbalances and potentially depressed neurologic and cardiac function. Symptoms of an acute overdose include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, slow heart rate, confusion, and weakness. Treatment of an acute overdose of magnesium hydroxide involves supportive care and symptom management.

Contraindications

Magnesium hydroxide should not be used in those with advanced kidney failure, or in those taking medications that interact with magnesium. It should also be avoided by those with hypersensitivity to magnesium, those with bowel obstruction, and those at risk for electrolyte imbalances.

Use Direction

Magnesium hydroxide should be taken orally, 1-2 times daily as needed. It should be taken with a full glass of water and should be taken at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.

Storage Condition

Magnesium hydroxide should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution for magnesium hydroxide is 8-20 mL/Kg.

Half-Life

The half-life of magnesium hydroxide is 1-2 hours.

Clearance

The clearance for magnesium hydroxide is 0.16-04 mL/Kg/Min.

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