The Burden of Heartburn and Indigestion
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the chronic form of acid reflux, affects an estimated 20% of adults in the United States. The primary symptom, heartburn, is a burning sensation in the chest that occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. This common ailment, along with symptoms of indigestion and gas, leads many to seek fast-acting relief from over-the-counter (OTC) medications like Mylanta.
How Does Mylanta Work?
Mylanta is a combination medication that provides relief in two main ways, thanks to its active ingredients. It works directly on existing acid in the stomach but does not prevent acid production.
Neutralizing Stomach Acid
The core function of Mylanta is to act as an antacid. It uses a combination of ingredients to neutralize excess stomach acid, increasing the pH level in the stomach and providing rapid relief from the burning sensation of heartburn and sour stomach. The most common antacid ingredients are:
- Aluminum Hydroxide: A potent antacid that works to neutralize stomach acid. It can sometimes cause constipation.
- Magnesium Hydroxide: Another fast-acting antacid that neutralizes stomach acid. It is often paired with aluminum hydroxide because it can have a laxative effect, which counteracts the constipating effect of the aluminum.
- Calcium Carbonate: Some Mylanta formulations use calcium carbonate as an antacid, which also works to neutralize stomach acid.
Relieving Gas and Bloating
Many Mylanta products also contain Simethicone. Simethicone is an anti-gas ingredient. It works by breaking up gas bubbles in the stomach and intestines, allowing trapped gas to be passed more easily and relieving feelings of pressure and bloating.
Different Types of Mylanta Products
Mylanta is available in several formulations, including liquids and chewable tablets, to target different needs.
- Mylanta Maximum Strength: This liquid formula contains aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone for relief from heartburn, acid indigestion, and gas. It is available in flavors like Classic Lemon Mint and Vanilla Caramel.
- Mylanta Tonight: Formulated with calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone, this liquid is designed for after-dinner heartburn and comes in a Honey Chamomile flavor. It is non-drowsy.
- Mylanta Coat & Cool®: This liquid product contains calcium carbonate, along with magnesium hydroxide and simethicone, and is offered in a Chocolate Mint flavor.
- Mylanta ONE: These chewable tablets combine calcium carbonate, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone for multi-symptom relief in a single tablet.
- Mylanta Gas Minis: These small, chewable tablets contain only simethicone and are used exclusively for relieving gas symptoms.
Administration and Important Considerations
Mylanta is typically taken as needed for symptoms. It's important not to use the maximum allowed amount for more than two weeks without consulting a doctor.
Potential Side Effects and Drug Interactions
Common side effects of Mylanta can include nausea, constipation (from aluminum hydroxide), or diarrhea (from magnesium hydroxide). A chalky taste is also possible. People with kidney disease or those on a magnesium-restricted diet should consult a doctor before using Mylanta, as magnesium can build up in the body.
Mylanta can interfere with the absorption of other medications. You should avoid taking other drugs within 2 hours before or 2 hours after taking an antacid. It can interact with certain antibiotics (like tetracyclines and quinolones), digoxin, and iron supplements.
Comparison with Other Antacids
| Feature | Mylanta | Tums | Pepto-Bismol | Gaviscon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Active Ingredient(s) | Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone (most formulas) | Calcium Carbonate | Bismuth Subsalicylate | Alginic Acid, Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Carbonate |
| Primary Use | Heartburn and Gas Relief | Heartburn, Indigestion | Diarrhea, Heartburn, Nausea | Heartburn, Acid Reflux |
| Mechanism | Neutralizes acid, breaks up gas bubbles | Neutralizes acid | Coats stomach, anti-secretory, and antimicrobial effects | Creates a protective barrier to block acid from refluxing |
| Also Treats Diarrhea? | No, may cause it | No | Yes | No |
Conclusion
Mylanta is a fast-acting, multi-symptom OTC medication effective for treating occasional heartburn, acid indigestion, and gas. Its combination of antacids (aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, or calcium carbonate) neutralizes stomach acid on contact, while simethicone provides relief from bloating and pressure. While generally safe for short-term use, it's important to be aware of potential side effects, drug interactions, and to consult a healthcare provider for chronic symptoms or if you have underlying health conditions like kidney disease.
For more detailed information from a trusted source, you can visit MedlinePlus.
