Ingredient

Magnesium Hydroxide

Magnesium hydroxide is an antacid and laxative ingredient that neutralizes stomach acid and promotes bowel movement.

See medicines used for Digestion / Gastritis / Heartburn
All medicines
79
Single ingredient
4
Combination
75
Prescription medication
2
OTC medication
77

MFDS ingredient code M040306

What does it do?

Magnesium hydroxide is an antacid that neutralizes stomach acid and a laxative ingredient that promotes bowel movement. It is mainly used to relieve heartburn caused by excessive stomach acid and to treat constipation. This ingredient acts in the gastrointestinal tract to improve digestive symptoms.

Magnesium hydroxide neutralizes the acid in the stomach, reducing discomfort caused by excessive stomach acid. It also draws water into the intestines to soften stools and promotes bowel movement, thereby helping with defecation. This plays a role in improving gastrointestinal health.

Commonly used for

Approved uses differ by product. Check each product's information for its actual use.

Good to know

Magnesium hydroxide is characterized by its laxative effect, which occurs alongside its antacid properties, unlike other antacids. Moreover, it places less strain on kidney function compared to antacids containing aluminum. This ingredient can be expected to provide both acid neutralization and constipation relief.

Medicines containing this ingredient

Even with the same ingredient, strength, dosage form and how it is taken can differ.

Category
Dosage form
Strength
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79 total

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Even with the same ingredient, dosage and approved uses can differ by strength, dosage form and combined ingredients. Check each product's information before taking it.

Combined ingredients

Ingredients used together with this ingredient in combination products.

Questions about this ingredient

  • QCan I take both gastrointestinal medications and laxatives simultaneously; can the ingredients overlap?

    Magnesium hydroxide is an ingredient used in both antacids and laxatives, so it may be present in both products. Please check whether the magnesium component overlaps in the ingredient list, and consult with a pharmacist about whether they can be taken together.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

  • QIs Magnesium Hydroxide a gastrointestinal medication or a laxative?

    Both are used. Magnesium hydroxide is an antacid that neutralizes stomach acid to reduce heartburn, and it is also used as a laxative, attracting water in the intestines to soften stools and promote bowel movements.

    Answers 1 · 2026.09.14

For anything that needs medical judgment, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

SourceKorea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (Drug Safety Korea)

This drug information is based on data provided by the Korea Ministry of Food and Drug Safety.
Consult a doctor or pharmacist for accurate dosage, administration, and usage instructions.