Should magnesium aluminum carbonate tablets be taken before or after meals?

Aluminum magnesium carbonate tablets are commonly used in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, primarily to relieve symptoms such as stomach pain and heartburn caused by excess stomach acid. They are generally recommended to be taken 1–2 hours after meals.

Taking aluminum magnesium carbonate tablets after meals ensures that the medication forms a protective layer in the stomach, effectively shielding the gastric mucosa from damage caused by gastric acid, pepsin, bile acids, and other substances, thereby protecting the gastric mucosa and relieving symptoms. Additionally, taking the medication after meals avoids rapid decomposition of the drug due to direct contact with gastric acid if taken before meals, thus maintaining its effectiveness. For symptoms such as stomach pain or burning sensation, the tablets can also be taken temporarily at bedtime or when discomfort occurs to quickly alleviate symptoms.

Aluminum magnesium carbonate tablets should not be taken simultaneously with certain medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics, as this may affect drug efficacy. Therefore, when using aluminum magnesium carbonate tablets, it is important to follow medical instructions and appropriately schedule medication times to ensure safety and effectiveness. Moreover, for long-term or high-dose use, regular follow-up examinations are recommended to monitor blood calcium and blood magnesium levels and prevent adverse reactions.