Mylanta is an over-the-counter medication that provides relief from common digestive discomforts like heartburn, acid indigestion, sour stomach, and upset stomach. It works by neutralizing excess stomach acid.
Understanding Adult Dosage
Adult Mylanta dosage varies by product form: liquid or chewable tablets. For liquid Mylanta, adults and children 12 and older typically take 10 to 20 milliliters (mL) per dose. Always use the provided dosing cup for accurate measurement.
For Mylanta chewable tablets, the recommended adult dosage is one tablet as needed. Other chewable forms may require two to four tablets per dose. Chew tablets thoroughly before swallowing, ideally with a full glass of water. Always refer to the product label for specific dosage instructions.
Timing and Frequency of Use
Mylanta is taken as needed for acid indigestion, heartburn, sour stomach, or upset stomach. It is recommended to take a dose after meals, at bedtime, or whenever symptoms occur. This timing allows the medication to work effectively against stomach acid produced during digestion or while lying down.
For liquid Mylanta, adults should not exceed 60 mL in 24 hours. For chewable tablets, the maximum daily intake is six tablets, while other chewable forms should not exceed 12 tablets in 24 hours. Do not use the maximum dosage for more than two weeks unless advised by a healthcare provider.
Important Safety Considerations
Be aware of important safety considerations before taking Mylanta. Do not use it if you have a known allergy to its ingredients, such as aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, or simethicone. Individuals with kidney problems or those on a magnesium-restricted diet should consult a healthcare provider, as magnesium and aluminum can accumulate in the body.
Mylanta can interact with various other medications, affecting their absorption or effectiveness. Interactions can occur with certain antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines, quinolones) and iron supplements. To minimize this, take Mylanta at least two hours before or after other medications. It can also interact with phosphate supplements and other drugs, so discuss all current medications with a healthcare professional.
Common side effects of Mylanta include nausea, constipation, diarrhea, headache, and stomach cramps. The magnesium component tends to cause diarrhea, while the aluminum component can lead to constipation. Long-term or excessive use may also lead to low phosphate levels in the body, which can manifest as loss of appetite, unusual tiredness, or muscle weakness.
It is important to seek medical advice if symptoms persist for more than one to two weeks, worsen, or recur frequently. Seek immediate medical attention if severe side effects develop, such as dizziness, fainting, slow or irregular heartbeat, changes in mental state (confusion, deep sleep), or pain during urination. Also seek immediate medical help for signs of an allergic reaction, including rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.