mechanism of action

Aluminum hydroxide is one component of the antacids recommended in the treatment of stomach ulcers and gastritis. Antacids perform a neutralization reaction, ie. they buffer gastric acid, raising the pH to reduce acidity in the stomach. When gastric hydrochloric acid reaches the nerves in the gasitrointestinal mucosa, they signal pain to the central nervous system. This happens when these nerves are exposed, as in peptic ulcers. The gastric acid may also reach ulcers in the esophagus or the duodenum. Other mechanisms may contribute, such as the effect of aluminum ions inhibiting smooth muscle cell contraction and delaying gastric emptying. Aluminum is known to bind troponin C (a muscle protein) and to interfere with voltage-dependent calcium transport. Aluminum also binds to and inhibits the activity of mitochondrial voltage gated channels (VDAC).

drug interactions

Amprenavir: The antiacid decreases the absorption of amprenavir

Atazanavir: This gastric pH modifier decreases the levels/effects of atazanavir

Chloroquine: The antiacid decreases the absorption of chloroquine

Ciprofloxacin: Formation of non-absorbable complexes

Clindamycin: The aluminium salt decreases the absorption of lincosamides

Clodronate: Formation of non-absorbable complexes

Tetracycline: Formation of non-absorbable complexes