
Magnesium Hydroxide mixture experiment preparation and evaluation, Milk of magnesia
Aim:
Preparation and Evaluation of Magnesium Hydroxide mixture / Milk of magnesia
Glassware: Beaker, glass rod, mortar & pestle, glass bottle, etc.
Formula:
Ingredients | Qty Given | Activity |
Magnesium Sulphate | Formation of Magnesium Hydroxide | |
Sodium Hydroxide | ||
Light Magnesium oxide | ||
Purified water freshly boiled and cooled | q.s to 1000 ml | Vehicle |
Procedure:
Time needed: 1 hour
How to prepare Magnesium Hydroxide mixture/ How to prepare Milk of magnesia
- Preparation of Sodium hydroxide
Sodium hydroxide was dissolved in purified water.
- Preparation of smooth cream
Light magnesium oxide was triturated with this solution to form a smooth cream.
- Mixing both solutions
Pour this suspension into a thin stream into a solution of the magnesium sulfate in purified water, stirring continuously during the mixing.
- Set mixture aside
The mixture is set aside in a closed container for 48 hrs
- Washing
Allow the precipitate to subside, remove the clear liquid, and wash the precipitate with purified water until the washings give only a slight reaction for sulfate. Test with barium chloride solution. Mix the washed precipitate with purified water
- Make up the volume
Add sufficient purified water to produce the required volume.
Theory
1. Chemical Properties:
Milk of Magnesia is composed of magnesium hydroxide (Mg(OH)₂), which is an inorganic compound. Magnesium hydroxide is a weak base that reacts with hydrochloric acid (HCl) in the stomach to form water and magnesium chloride (MgCl₂). This reaction helps neutralize excess stomach acid, providing relief from indigestion and heartburn.
2. Suspension Formation:
Milk of Magnesia is formulated as a suspension, which is a dispersion of solid magnesium hydroxide particles in a liquid vehicle. The choice of a liquid vehicle, such as water or a flavored solution, is important to ensure the suspension remains stable and easy to administer.
3. pH Adjustment:
The pH of Milk of Magnesia is adjusted to optimize its antacid properties. Magnesium hydroxide has maximum solubility and reactivity around pH 10.5. Formulators adjust the pH to ensure that the magnesium hydroxide particles remain well-dispersed and effective in neutralizing stomach acid.
4. Viscosity and Texture:
The viscosity of Milk of Magnesia is adjusted to achieve a desirable texture and mouthfeel. Thickeners or suspending agents may be added to prevent the settling of the solid particles and to ensure uniform distribution throughout the suspension.
5. Flavoring and Sweetening:
To improve patient acceptability, Milk of Magnesia is often flavored and sweetened. Flavoring agents, such as mint or fruit flavors, are added to mask the chalky taste of magnesium hydroxide. Sweeteners, such as sucrose or high fructose corn syrup, can enhance the overall palatability.
6. Stability and Settling:
Stability is a critical consideration in Milk of Magnesia formulation. Proper selection of suspending agents and thorough mixing help prevent the settling of the solid particles over time. Shake well instructions on the label remind users to homogenize the suspension before administration.
7. Dosage Forms:
Milk of Magnesia is available in different dosage forms, including liquid suspensions and chewable tablets. Chewable tablets are formulated to disintegrate in the stomach, releasing magnesium hydroxide for antacid action.
8. Laxative Action:
In addition to its antacid properties, Milk of Magnesia can act as a laxative. When ingested, magnesium hydroxide attracts water into the intestines, softening the stool and promoting bowel movements. This is particularly useful for relieving constipation.
9. Pharmacokinetics:
After ingestion, magnesium hydroxide dissociates into magnesium ions and hydroxide ions in the stomach. The magnesium ions may be partially absorbed in the intestines and can contribute to dietary magnesium intake. However, the laxative effect is primarily due to the osmotic action of unabsorbed magnesium ions.
Precautions:
Avoid giving it to patients with hypophosphatemia and impairment of renal function.
Do not co-administer with antidepressants and anti-epileptic drugs.
Definitions:
Milk of magnesia: It is an antacid that consists of a suspension of magnesium hydroxide in water. Milk-like appearance is giving the name of magnesia
Laxative: The agents which loosen stools and increase bowel movement.
Antacid: The agents or drugs which neutralize the excess secretion of hydrochloric acid
Preservative: The chemical substances used in various pharmaceutical dosage forms and cosmetic preparations to prevent or inhibit microbial growth.
Flavoring agent: The agents are usually added in pharmaceutical dosage form to give flavor to the pharmaceutical formulation.
Vehicle: Vehicles or solvents are the media in which ingredients of a formulation are Dissolved, suspended, or dispersed.
Information
Category: Laxative (8-16 ml) and antacid (1-4 ml)
Container & storage: Well-closed container in a cool place
Labelling Direction: Shake well before use
What is the other name of magnesium hydroxide?
Magnesium hydroxide mixture is also known as Milk of magnesia or magnesium(2+) hydroxide
Milk of Magnesia is a white liquid suspension of magnesium hydroxide in water. It is commonly used as an antacid to neutralize excess stomach acid and as a laxative to relieve constipation.
Laxative (8-16 ml) and antacid (1-4 ml)
Milk of Magnesia works as an antacid by neutralizing stomach acid, which can help provide relief from heartburn, indigestion, and acid-related stomach discomfort.
Milk of Magnesia works as a laxative by drawing water into the intestines, which softens the stool and promotes bowel movements. It is used to relieve temporary constipation.
Milk of Magnesia is generally safe when used as directed. However, prolonged or excessive use can lead to electrolyte imbalances. It is important to follow dosing instructions and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using Milk of Magnesia. While it is often considered safe, medical guidance is recommended.
Dosing instructions for Milk of Magnesia vary based on the specific product and the purpose for which it is being used (antacid or laxative). Always follow the dosing instructions on the product label or as directed by a healthcare professional.
Milk of Magnesia can interact with certain medications, including antibiotics, heart medications, and tetracycline. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking before using Milk of Magnesia.
Common side effects of Milk of Magnesia may include diarrhea, stomach cramps, and upset stomach. Serious side effects are rare but may include allergic reactions. Consult a healthcare professional if you experience any unusual or severe symptoms.
Milk of Magnesia can be used for children under the guidance of a healthcare provider. The appropriate dosage will depend on the child’s age and weight.
Milk of Magnesia is generally not recommended for long-term or chronic constipation. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience persistent or recurring constipation.
Yes, Milk of Magnesia is available in various formulations, including liquid suspensions and chewable tablets. Different formulations may have different dosing instructions.
Milk of Magnesia should be stored at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Be sure to check the product label for specific storage instructions.
Yes, Milk of Magnesia can be used as an antacid to relieve heartburn and acid indigestion. It helps neutralize excess stomach acid.
Yes, Milk of Magnesia can be used to provide relief from an upset stomach caused by excess stomach acid.
Milk of Magnesia is not typically used as a primary treatment for peptic ulcers. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for appropriate ulcer treatment.
Milk of Magnesia is a versatile over-the-counter medication commonly used to address digestive issues such as heartburn, indigestion, and temporary constipation. However, it is important to use it as directed and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or if your symptoms persist.
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