Understanding Maalox and Its Status in the US
Maalox is an over-the-counter (OTC) antacid historically used to relieve heartburn, acid indigestion, and upset stomach [1.3.2]. Its name is derived from its main active ingredients: MAgnesium hydroxide and ALuminum hydrOXide [1.5.1]. This combination was first approved by the FDA in 1949 and became a household name for digestive relief [1.5.3]. The two antacids work together to neutralize stomach acid [1.3.5]. The magnesium hydroxide component can act as a laxative, while the aluminum hydroxide can cause constipation; combined, they tend to balance each other's gastrointestinal effects [1.5.3]. Many formulations also include simethicone, an anti-gas ingredient that breaks down gas bubbles [1.2.4, 1.3.5].
While the brand-name Maalox has been discontinued in the United States, generic versions with the same active ingredients are still available [1.2.2, 1.3.5]. This means you can still find the classic Maalox formulation, just not under the well-known brand name.
The Primary US Equivalent: Mylanta
The most direct and commonly cited equivalent to Maalox in the U.S. is Mylanta [1.2.1]. Like Maalox, many Mylanta products contain the combination of aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone [1.2.4, 1.4.3]. For instance, Mylanta Maximum Strength contains these three ingredients to provide relief from heartburn, acid indigestion, and gas [1.4.4]. Because they share this core formulation, their mechanism of action and effectiveness are very similar [1.6.5]. Both work quickly to neutralize existing stomach acid, offering fast but temporary relief [1.9.3].
Other brands that offer this same combination of active ingredients include Gelusil and various store-brand generic products [1.6.3, 1.6.5]. When shopping, it's essential to check the "Drug Facts" label to confirm the active ingredients match what you are looking for.
How Maalox Equivalents Compare to Other Antacids
While Mylanta is the closest chemical cousin to Maalox, the antacid aisle is filled with other options that work differently. Understanding these differences can help you choose the best product for your specific symptoms.
Combination Antacids vs. Single-Ingredient Options
- Maalox/Mylanta (Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone): This combination neutralizes acid and relieves gas [1.3.5]. The dual antacids balance potential side effects like diarrhea and constipation [1.10.3].
- Tums (Calcium Carbonate): Tums is another popular antacid, but its primary active ingredient is calcium carbonate [1.2.2]. It is a strong and fast-acting acid neutralizer [1.10.3]. Unlike Maalox, it does not typically contain an anti-gas ingredient unless specified (e.g., Tums + Gas Relief) [1.2.2]. A potential side effect of calcium carbonate is constipation [1.2.2]. Tums is also used as a calcium supplement [1.2.2].
- Rolaids (Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Hydroxide): Rolaids combines two antacids to neutralize stomach acid [1.11.1]. It provides a different combination compared to the aluminum/magnesium mix in Maalox and Mylanta [1.10.4].
Comparison Table: Maalox Equivalents vs. Other Common Antacids
| Attribute | Maalox (Generic) / Mylanta | Tums | Rolaids |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Active Ingredients | Aluminum Hydroxide, Magnesium Hydroxide, Simethicone [1.2.1, 1.2.4] | Calcium Carbonate [1.2.2] | Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Hydroxide [1.11.1] |
| Mechanism of Action | Neutralizes stomach acid; breaks up gas bubbles [1.3.5] | Neutralizes stomach acid [1.2.5] | Neutralizes stomach acid [1.11.1] |
| Primary Use | Heartburn, acid indigestion, gas, bloating [1.3.1] | Heartburn, sour stomach, acid indigestion [1.2.5] | Heartburn, indigestion [1.11.1] |
| Common Side Effects | Diarrhea or constipation (often balanced) [1.2.2] | Constipation, gas [1.2.2] | Can cause high blood calcium with overuse [1.11.1] |
| Gas Relief | Yes (contains Simethicone) [1.2.1] | No (unless in specific formulations like Tums + Gas Relief) [1.2.2] | No [1.11.1] |
Beyond Antacids: Other Options for Heartburn Relief
If you experience frequent heartburn (two or more times a week), antacids might not be the best long-term solution as they only neutralize existing acid and don't prevent it [1.8.4]. Other classes of OTC medications may be more appropriate:
- H2 Blockers (e.g., Pepcid AC/Famotidine, Tagamet HB/Cimetidine): These drugs work by reducing the amount of acid your stomach produces [1.9.3, 1.9.4]. They don't act as quickly as antacids but provide longer relief [1.9.3].
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) (e.g., Prilosec OTC/Omeprazole, Nexium 24HR/Esomeprazole): These are the strongest options for reducing stomach acid production and are intended for the treatment of frequent heartburn [1.9.3, 1.9.4]. They are not meant for immediate relief but rather for a 14-day course of treatment [1.9.4].
Conclusion
To answer the question, 'What is the US equivalent of Maalox?', the most direct replacement is Mylanta, along with generic store-brand products that contain aluminum hydroxide, magnesium hydroxide, and simethicone [1.2.1, 1.6.5]. While the Maalox brand itself is no longer marketed in the U.S., its effective formulation lives on in these equivalents [1.2.2]. For occasional heartburn, especially when accompanied by gas, these products are an excellent choice. However, for chronic or frequent symptoms, consulting a healthcare provider to discuss other options like H2 blockers or PPIs is recommended [1.8.4].
[The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any new medication.]
Authoritative Link: For more detailed information on antacid ingredients, you can visit the National Library of Medicine's page on Aluminum Hydroxide and Magnesium Hydroxide. [1.10.3]
