What are the side effects of Aluminium hydroxide; Magnesium hydroxide; Liquorice; Simeticone?

Loose stool or mild diarrhoea (from the magnesium), constipation (from the aluminium), chalky taste in the mouth, mild stomach cramps, nausea

Who should not take Aluminium hydroxide; Magnesium hydroxide; Liquorice; Simeticone?

People with severe kidney problems should not take this medicine. Avoid it if you are allergic to any of the ingredients. People on a low-sodium or low-magnesium diet, and those with very low phosphate levels, should also avoid it. Do not use for more than 2 weeks without consulting a doctor.

OTC

Antacid and Anti-flatulent

Aluminium hydroxide; Magnesium hydroxide; Liquorice; Simeticone

Q: What is Aluminium hydroxide; Magnesium hydroxide; Liquorice; Simeticone used for?

Heartburn, stomach ulcer, acid reflux (when acid comes up your throat), indigestion, stomach bloating, excess gas (flatulence), belching

Q: How do you take Aluminium hydroxide; Magnesium hydroxide; Liquorice; Simeticone?

Adults should take 2-4 teaspoonfuls (10-20ml) of the suspension between meals and at bedtime, or as directed by your pharmacist. Shake the bottle well before use. You can take it about 1 hour after eating or whenever you feel heartburn or stomach discomfort.

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

This is a combination antacid and anti-gas medicine: aluminium hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide work together to neutralize excess stomach acid, liquorice (deglycyrrhizinated) helps soothe and protect the stomach lining, and simeticone breaks up gas bubbles in your stomach to relieve bloating.

How it works

Neutralizes gastric acid by binding hydrogen ions and raising gastric pH, while simeticone reduces surface tension of gas bubbles to facilitate expulsion; liquorice and magnesium-aluminium hydroxides provide cytoprotective effects by stimulating mucus secretion and enhancing the gastric mucosal barrier.

What is it used for?

Heartburnstomach ulceracid reflux (when acid comes up your throat)indigestionstomach bloatingexcess gas (flatulence)belching

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Bloating & Gas Ulcer & Stomach Acid

Available Over The Counter

Get this from any pharmacy or chemist: no prescription needed.

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What to watch out for

Buy only from reputable pharmacies; a product like Algimet Suspension should have proper NAFDAC registration. Do not use this medicine to replace proper treatment if you have a confirmed stomach ulcer; see your doctor. If your symptoms do not improve after 2 weeks of regular use, stop and visit a hospital.

Common Side Effects

Loose stool or mild diarrhoea (from the magnesium)
constipation (from the aluminium)
chalky taste in the mouth
mild stomach cramps
nausea

Serious Side Effects

Severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face
lips
or difficulty breathing requires immediate hospital care. If you notice muscle weakness
confusion
or unusual tiredness after using it for a long time
see your doctor right away.

Drug Interactions

This medicine can reduce the absorption of other drugs, so do not take it at the same time as antibiotics like tetracycline or ciprofloxacin; leave at least 2 hours gap. It can also affect how iron supplements and blood pressure medicines work. If you are on any regular medication, take this antacid at least 1-2 hours apart from your other drugs.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as occasional use may be okay, but prolonged use is not recommended without medical advice.

Who Should NOT Take This

People with severe kidney problems should not take this medicine. Avoid it if you are allergic to any of the ingredients. People on a low-sodium or low-magnesium diet
and those with very low phosphate levels
should also avoid it. Do not use for more than 2 weeks without consulting a doctor.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so do not leave it in your car or near a window. Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of the reach of children. Do not freeze.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.