General Description: Oral antacids have been prescribed to your pet to neutralize excess acid in the stomach. This may be useful if your pet has an inflamed esophagus or stomach, to prevent stomach ulcerations or if your pet has kidney failure, they may be used to decrease the amount of phosphate in the blood. Many oral liquids, capsules and tablets are available over-the-counter. Discuss with your veterinarian which product will be most useful for your pet.
What is this drug?
An antacid
Given by mouth
Reasons for prescribing:
To neutralize excess stomach acid
For the treatment or prevention of stomach ulceration, or inflammation of the esophagus or stomach
For the treatment of high blood phosphorous levels associated with kidney failure
What dogs/cats should not take this medication?
Avoid using while pet is nursing kittens/puppies
Pets with kidney disease
Pets who have any condition that causes slow emptying of the stomach
If your pet has had an allergic reaction to aluminum hydroxide or like products before
Directions:
For liquids, shake well before accurately measuring the dose.
Give the exact amount prescribed and only as often as directed. It is usually givenevery four hours.
Give this medication for as long as veterinarian directs. Do not skip doses or stop giving the medication without consulting your veterinarian.
What if a dose is missed?
If a dose is missed, give it as soon as you can, regardless of feeding status. If it is time already for the next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give two doses at the same time.
What to tell/ask veterinarian before giving medication?
Talk to your veterinarian about:
When will your pet need to be rechecked
What tests may need to be performed prior to and during treatment with this drug
Risks and benefits of using this drug
Tell your veterinarian about:
If your pet has experienced side-effects on other drugs/products
If your pet has experienced digestive upset now or ever
If your pet has experienced any other medical problems or allergies now or ever
If your pet is pregnant or nursing or if you plan to breed your pet
Storage and Warnings:
Store in a tight, light resistant, childproof container in a cool, dry place at room temperature away from heat and direct sunlight.
Keep this and all medication out of reach of children and pets.
Possible side effects:
This medication is usually well tolerated (hence the reason they are ‘over the counter’ drugs)
Constipation (encourage your pet to drink as much as possible to lessen this effect)
For pets being treated for high phosphorus levels related to kidney disease, phosphorus blood levels will need to be monitored
If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian
Can this drug be given with other drugs?
Many drugs (including aspirin) can possibly interact with aluminum hydroxide. Inform your veterinarian if your pet is currently taking any other medications.
If your pet experiences any unusual reactions when taking multiple medications, contact your veterinarian.
Overdosing?
Contact your veterinarian immediately if pet eats more than the prescribed amount.
What else should I know?
Notify your veterinarian if your animal’s condition does not improve or worsens despite this treatment.
As with all prescribed medicines, aluminum hydroxide should only be given to the pet for which it was prescribed. It should be given only for the condition for which it was prescribed.
This is just a summary of information about aluminum hydroxide. If you have any questions or concerns about aluminum hydroxide or the condition it was prescribed for, contact your veterinarian.
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