Drug interactions
Magnesium hydroxide + Nitrofurantoin
Severity: Minor
Magnesium hydroxide and Nitrofurantoin: minor interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Magnesium trisilicate-type antacids have been shown to reduce absorption of nitrofurantoin, and magnesium hydroxide may act similarly. The reduction could lessen urinary drug concentrations, although the clinical importance is uncertain.
What this interaction means in plain words
Magnesium hydroxide and Nitrofurantoin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised.
Magnesium hydroxide belongs to Gastrointestinal Tract; Nitrofurantoin belongs to Anti Bacterial.
Why it happens
Adsorption or binding of nitrofurantoin by antacid in the gut may reduce its absorption.
What to do
Separate doses by about 2 hours, giving nitrofurantoin first, and take it with food. Watch for treatment failure in urinary infection.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Is there anything I should notice while taking both?
- Do I need to tell my doctor at the next visit?
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Other interactions of Magnesium hydroxide
Other interactions of Nitrofurantoin
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Magnesium hydroxide with Nitrofurantoin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as minor. Magnesium hydroxide and Nitrofurantoin have a small, usually unimportant interaction. Most people can take both; the pharmacist may still mention it so that any unexpected effect is recognised. Magnesium trisilicate-type antacids have been shown to reduce absorption of nitrofurantoin, and magnesium hydroxide may act similarly. The reduction could lessen urinary drug concentrations, although the clinical importance is uncertain.
How serious is the interaction between Magnesium hydroxide and Nitrofurantoin?
MediHelp rates it minor, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Separate doses by about 2 hours, giving nitrofurantoin first, and take it with food. Watch for treatment failure in urinary infection.
What other medicines interact with Magnesium hydroxide?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Magnesium hydroxide with, for example, Ciprofloxacin, Dolutegravir, Gemifloxacin. The full list is on the Magnesium hydroxide page.
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