In the pharmaceutical industry, the combination of Dried Aluminium Hydroxide Gel and Magnesium Trisilicate (frequently formulated as chewable tablets) is a classic and highly effective antacid therapy. As a pharmacist, I view this combination as a strategic formulation designed to provide both rapid and sustained relief from gastric hyperacidity while balancing the side effects associated with single-component antacids.
Primary Clinical Uses
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Hyperacidity & Heartburn: Provides immediate symptomatic relief from “heartburn” and indigestion caused by excessive gastric acid production.
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Peptic Ulcers: Acts as an adjunctive treatment to manage pain and promote healing in gastric and duodenal ulcers by neutralizing corrosive stomach acid.
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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Alleviates the burning sensation in the chest and throat caused by acid reflux.
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Gastritis: Indicated for the management of acute or chronic stomach lining inflammation, providing a protective environment for the mucosa.
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Mechanism of Action
This combination is engineered for physiological balance. Dried Aluminium Hydroxide Gel is a slow-acting antacid that provides a prolonged neutralizing effect; however, it is known to cause constipation. Magnesium Trisilicate acts more rapidly and has a mild laxative effect, which counteracts the constipating property of the aluminum.
Together, they neutralize hydrochloric acid in the stomach to increase the pH. Furthermore, Magnesium Trisilicate reacts with gastric acid to form a gelatinous silica, which coats the stomach lining, providing a physical barrier (mucosal protection) against acid and pepsin.
The Manufacturer’s Perspective: Formulation & Export
From a manufacturing and global trade standpoint, this combination is a high-volume OTC (Over-the-Counter) essential that requires careful formulation:
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Acid Neutralizing Capacity (ANC): As a WHO-GMP manufacturer, we strictly validate the ANC of every batch to ensure the tablets meet the required BP/USP/IP pharmacopeial standards for clinical efficacy.
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Chewable Tablet Texture: To ensure maximum surface area for neutralization, these are typically chewable. We focus on fine granulation to avoid a “gritty” mouthfeel and use premium flavoring (like cool mint) to ensure patient compliance.
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Global Demand: This combination remains a staple for international health tenders and B2B distributors catering to retail pharmacy chains in Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
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Regulatory Documentation: We provide comprehensive CTD Dossiers and stability data to support our partners in the rapid registration of these essential digestive health products.