Milk of Magnesia: Side Effects for Toddlers

If your toddler (ages one to three) is experiencing constipation, especially chronic, talk to your pediatrician about ways to ease the symptoms. Your pediatrician will likely conduct an examination for any structural or disease-related causes. Usually, however, the cause is related to diet (a fiber deficiency or excessive milk) or fear of defecation. Ask your pediatrician for specific recommendations on diet, how to lessen your child's fear and encourage daily elimination.

Side effects

• Studies published in the journals "Pediatrics" and "American Family Physician" found milk of magnesia to be generally safe; however, talk to your doctor if your child develops diarrhea, nausea or begins to vomit.

Overdose

• Use milk of magnesia exactly as your pediatrician directs. Do not double up on a missed dose. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, flushing, low blood pressure, slow heartbeat, drowsiness, coma and even death, if you do not seek help immediately. Call your local poison control center and then your pediatrician.

Interaction

• Milk of magnesia has been shown to interact with certain antibiotics. Talk to your pediatrician if your child is taking antibiotics. Signs of interaction may include prolonged infection or constipation, which would indicate reduced effectiveness of either drug.