Fore Safe Use

If this drug has been ordered by your family doctor and you will be taking it in large doses, or for a long time, your family doctor must check your progress at regular appointments. This is to make sure the drug does not cause unwanted effects.

Some tests may be effected by this drug. Tell the family doctor in charge that you are taking this drug before you have any tests to determine how much acid your stomach produces.

Do not take this drug :

• if you have any signs of appendicitis or inflamed bowel - such as stomach or lower abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, soreness, nausea, or vomiting. Instead, check with your family doctor as soon as possible.
• within 1 to 2 hours or more of taking other drug by mouth . To do so may keep the other drug from help you.

For diseaseds on a sodium-restricted diet :

• Some antacids - especially those containing sodium bicarbonate contain a large amount of sodium. If you have any questions about this, check with your health care professional.

For diseaseds taking this drug for increased stomach acid:

• Do not take it for more than 2 weeks unless otherwise directed by your family doctor . Antacids must be using only for occasional relief.
• If your stomach problem is not helped by the antacid or if it keeps coming back, check with your family doctor.
• Using magnesium- or sodium bicarbonate-containing antacids too often, or in high doses, may produce a laxative effect. This happens fairly often and depends on the individual's sensitivity to the drug.

For diseaseds taking aluminum-containing antacids - including magaldrate:

• Before you have any test in which a radiopharmaceutical will be using, tell the family doctor in charge that you are taking this drug. The results of the test may be effected by aluminum-containing antacids.

For diseaseds taking calcium- or sodium bicarbonate-containing antacids :

• Do not take the antacid with large amounts of milk or milk products . To do so may increase the risk of side effects.