Is Phillips milk of magnesia safe for babies?

Is Phillips Milk of Magnesia Safe for Babies?
Phillips Milk of Magnesia is a well-known over-the-counter medication primarily used as an antacid and laxative. While it is effective for relieving constipation in adults and older children, its safety for infants and very young children is a topic of concern among parents and healthcare professionals.
General Recommendations for Use in Children
According to the product guidelines, Phillips Milk of Magnesia is generally not recommended for children under the age of 6 without consulting a doctor. For children aged 6 to 12, it is advised to seek medical advice before administering the medication. This caution stems from the potential for adverse effects and the need for appropriate dosing, which can vary significantly based on age and weight.
Concerns for Infants
The consensus among healthcare providers is clear: do not give Milk of Magnesia to babies. The primary reason for this warning is the risk of electrolyte imbalances and dehydration, which can be particularly dangerous for infants. Their bodies are still developing, and they may not handle the magnesium content in Milk of Magnesia as effectively as older children or adults.
Moreover, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that constipation in infants should be addressed through dietary changes or other safer methods rather than over-the-counter laxatives. If a baby is experiencing constipation, it is crucial for parents to consult a pediatrician who can recommend safe and effective treatments tailored to the infant’s specific needs.
Potential Side Effects
While Milk of Magnesia is generally safe for older children and adults when used correctly, it can cause side effects such as diarrhea, cramping, and nausea. In infants, these side effects could lead to more severe complications, including dehydration. Therefore, the risks associated with its use in very young children far outweigh any potential benefits.
Conclusion
In summary, Phillips Milk of Magnesia is not considered safe for babies. Parents should avoid administering this medication to infants and instead seek guidance from a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment options for constipation or other digestive issues. Always prioritize safety and consult with a pediatrician when it comes to the health of young children.

What laxative is safe for babies?

Examples include polyethylene glycol 3350 (PEG), PEG 4000, Milk of Magnesia (magnesium hydroxide), and Magnesium Citrate. These medications attract more water to the colon to ease, hydrate, and soften poop. PEG 3350 is the recommended osmotic laxative to be used in infants and children.

Can you give milk of magnesia to an infant?

Oral Medications
If under 2 months of age, please call our office before trying oral medicines. Milk of Magnesia – for infants 2 months of age and older, you can give them 2.5 – 5 mL of milk of magnesia (MOM) daily. This will help soften the stool. MOM is not addictive, you can use it every day.

What can I give my 5 month old for constipation?

Fruit juice – If your infant is at least four months old, you can give certain fruit juices to treat constipation. This includes prune, apple, or pear juice (other juices are not as helpful). You can give a total of 2 to 3 ounces (60 to 120 mL) of 100 percent fruit juice per day for children four to eight months old.

Which milk is not recommended for infants?

Cow’s milk
Cow’s milk is not recommended for infants under less than one year old because the milk contains too much salt and protein. For infants who are not breastfed, infant formula is given in its place. The carbohydrate, fat, protein, vitamin, and mineral content is formulated to be as close to human breast milk as possible.

Is it OK to give babies magnesium?

Magnesium is also essential for the development of the baby’s bones, teeth, and heart. Babies should be able to reach their recommended dietary allowance through breast milk, baby formulas or food, if the baby’s nutritional needs are not being met, magnesium supplements might be recommended by your doctor.

What to give when baby is constipated?

Water or fruit juice.
Water is usually best to try first, but apple or pear juice contains a sweetener called sorbitol that helps relieve constipation. You can try prune juice for that same reason if your baby is older than 3 months. Your healthcare professional can guide you on how much fruit juice to give.

What is best to give a constipated baby?

Water or fruit juice.
Water is usually best to try first, but apple or pear juice contains a sweetener called sorbitol that helps relieve constipation. You can try prune juice for that same reason if your baby is older than 3 months. Your healthcare professional can guide you on how much fruit juice to give.

Is phipps good for infants?

This antacid and laxative for children and adults is also suitable for babies. Plus, it is sugar-free.

Can children take Phillips milk of magnesia?

Phillips’® Milk of Magnesia
Recommended dose: Adults and children 12 years and older: 30 mL to 60 mL. Children 6 to 11 years: 15 mL to 30 mL. Children under 6 years: Ask a doctor.

What simple trick empties your bowels immediately?

Try These Tricks for Quick Bowel Movement Stimulation

• Drink coffee. Regarding drinks that make you poop, coffee is probably the first that comes to mind.
• Squat when you poop.
• Use a fiber supplement.
• Take a stimulant laxative.
• Take an osmotic laxative.
• Take a lubricant laxative.
• Try a stool softener.
• Use a suppository.