Nilacid Suspension is a combination antacid and antiflatulent containing aluminium hydroxide 200 mg, magnesium hydroxide 400 mg and simethicone 30 mg per 5 ml. It is designed to provide symptomatic relief from excess stomach acid as well as digestive discomfort associated with gas and bloating. Nilacid is prescribed for symptomatic relief of hyperacidity associated with peptic ulcer, gastritis, peptic oesophagitis, heartburn, sour stomach and hiatus hernia. It also acts as an antiflatulent to help alleviate symptoms caused by intestinal gas.
How Nilacid works
Nilacid contains two antacid ingredients and one antiflatulent.
Aluminium hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide react with and neutralise hydrochloric acid in the stomach. This reduces gastric acidity and can provide symptomatic relief from acid-related discomfort such as heartburn and indigestion.
The two antacids are combined because they have complementary effects on bowel function. Aluminium-containing antacids can tend to cause constipation, while magnesium-containing antacids can have a laxative effect.
Simethicone works differently. It is an antiflatulent that reduces the surface tension of gas bubbles in the gastrointestinal tract, allowing smaller bubbles to combine and be passed more easily. This can help relieve symptoms such as abdominal fullness, bloating and trapped gas.
Uses and indications
Nilacid Suspension may be used for symptomatic relief of:
- Heartburn
- Hyperacidity
- Acid indigestion
- Gastric discomfort associated with excess acid
- Gastritis
- Peptic ulcer-associated symptoms
- Peptic oesophagitis
- Sour stomach
- Symptoms associated with hiatus hernia
- Flatulence and gas-related discomfort
It can also be used as an antiflatulent for gas symptoms, including postoperative gas pain.
Nilacid provides symptomatic relief. It does not necessarily treat the underlying cause of conditions such as peptic ulcer disease or gastro-oesophageal reflux disease, so persistent or recurrent symptoms should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS
- Use with caution in people with kidney impairment.
- Do not use continuously for prolonged periods without medical advice.
- Persistent heartburn or indigestion should be medically assessed.
- Inform your healthcare professional about other medicines you are taking.
- Antacids may interfere with absorption of certain oral medicines.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women should seek professional advice before regular use.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Do not exceed the recommended dose.
Common side effects
Possible effects may include:
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea or loose stools
- Nausea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Changes in bowel movements
These effects can vary because aluminium hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide can have opposing effects on bowel function.
Prolonged excessive use, particularly in people with kidney impairment, may increase the risk of electrolyte disturbances or accumulation of aluminium or magnesium.
