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NCI Drug Dictionary


magnesium hydroxide 
A solution of magnesium hydroxide with antacid and laxative properties. Milk of magnesium exerts its antacid activity in low doses such that all hydroxide ions that enter the stomach are used to neutralize stomach acid. This agent exerts its laxative effect in higher doses so that hydroxide ions are able to move from the stomach to the intestines where they attract and retain water, thereby increasing intestinal movement (peristalsis) and inducing the urge to defecate. Check for active clinical trials or closed clinical trials using this agent. (NCI Thesaurus)
US brand name:Milk of Magnesia