Questions and Answers
Which of these are therapeutic classes of magnesium hydroxide?
The dosage for magnesium hydroxide for PO is ______ at bedtime.
15-60 mL
What is the mechanism of action (MOA) of magnesium hydroxide?
Increases osmotic pressure, draws fluid into colon, neutralizes HCL
What are the primary indications for the use of magnesium hydroxide?
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Which of the following are major side effects of magnesium hydroxide?
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Magnesium hydroxide is contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to the drug.
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Before administering magnesium hydroxide, what should you assess?
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What should be monitored after administering magnesium hydroxide?
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What important patient education should be provided regarding the long-term use of laxatives?
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Study Notes
Magnesium Hydroxide Overview
- Known as Milk of Magnesia; also marketed as Freelax and MOM.
- Classified as an electrolyte, anticonvulsant, laxative, and antacid.
Dosage and Administration
- Oral dosage: 15-60 mL at bedtime.
- Intramuscular dosage: 1 gram every 6 hours, up to 4 times daily.
- Intravenous dosage for severe cases: 5 grams diluted to a 20% solution or less, administered at a rate under 150 mg/min.
- Routes of administration include oral (PO), intramuscular (IM), and intravenous (IV).
Mechanism of Action
- Increases osmotic pressure, drawing fluid into the colon.
- Neutralizes hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach.
Indications for Use
- Primarily indicated for constipation.
- Used to maintain electrolyte balance.
- Acts as an anticonvulsant in cases of preeclampsia and eclampsia (in conjunction with magnesium sulfate).
Major Side Effects
- CNS: muscle weakness, sweating, flaccid paralysis, hypothermia.
- Cardiovascular: circulatory collapse, hypotension, heart blocks, vasodilation.
- Gastrointestinal: nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps.
- Hematological: prolonged bleeding time.
- Metabolic: electrolyte and fluid imbalances.
- Respiratory: respiratory depression or paralysis.
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to magnesium hydroxide.
- Presence of abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
- Risk of intestinal obstruction, acute surgical abdomen, or rectal bleeding.
- History of myocardial infarction or heart block.
Pre-Administration Checks
- Assess vital signs, and evaluate neurological, cardiac, gastrointestinal, respiratory, and skin status.
- Check electrolytes and establish baseline lab values.
- Monitor intake and output (I&O) and weight.
- Review patient’s medical history, current medications, and allergies.
Post-Administration Monitoring
- Reassess mental status and monitor respiratory and cardiac function (including EKG).
- Track daily weight and fluid intake/output.
- Monitor lab values: BUN, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, chloride, calcium, and sodium.
- Watch for allergic reactions and signs of magnesium toxicity (such as decreased reflexes, thirst, and confusion).
- Assess for fluid imbalances, edema, and precautions against seizures (especially in eclampsia).
Patient Education
- Advise against the long-term use of laxatives to prevent loss of bowel tone.
- Suggest chilling magnesium sulfate to improve taste.
- Instruct to shake the suspension well before use.
- Recommend against using at bedtime to prevent nocturnal side effects.
- Recommend giving citrus fruits after administration to mask unpleasant taste.
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Description
Test your knowledge on magnesium hydroxide, commonly known as Milk of Magnesia. This quiz covers its generic and trade names, therapeutic classifications, dosage ranges, and routes of administration. Perfect for students and professionals in healthcare fields.
