Name: Magnesium Hydroxide
Class: Laxative (Saline Cathartic)
Mechanism: Nonabsorbable ions ® osmotic pressure in bowel ® watery stools in 1-3 hr.
Absorption: Not much.
Dist.:
Metabolism.:
Excretion, t½:
Toxicity/S.E.s: Toxic levels of Mg2+ may accumulate in infants, old folk, and pts. w/impaired renal fxn. Large amount of Na+ (prob. for pts. on low Na+ diets). Potential problem of dehydration.
Utility: Acute evacuation of bowel in preparation for endoscopic exam. Elim. of drugs/toxins for suspected drug/food poisoning.
Special Features: