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Short answer Antacid reliance: what to watch for Common questions Related questions SourcesNo, aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide are not addictive and do not cause physical dependence.
These are antacids that neutralize acid already in your stomach. They do not act on the brain reward pathways involved in addiction, so they do not cause cravings, tolerance, or withdrawal when you stop. What often feels like dependence is the underlying reflux returning once the dose wears off. Frequent use can also cause diarrhea from the magnesium or constipation from the aluminum, and it can delay finding out what is driving your symptoms. Take them with food or at bedtime for predictable relief, keep other medicines about 2 hours apart from your dose, and track how many days a week you actually need one.
Antacid reliance: what to watch for
Common questions
Is Aluminum Hydroxide and Magnesium Hydroxide addictive?
No. Aluminum hydroxide and magnesium hydroxide are antacids that work in the stomach to neutralize acid. They do not act on the brain, so they do not cause cravings, tolerance, or withdrawal, and stopping them does not set off a drug reaction. What can feel like dependence is untreated reflux: when the dose wears off, the burning comes back because the acid problem is still there. Regular use can also cause diarrhea from the magnesium or constipation from the aluminum, and it can mask a condition that needs its own treatment. If you need an antacid most days for more than 2 weeks, or you have kidney disease, talk with a clinician about the cause and about safer long-term options.