Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia and Phrenilin with Caffeine and Codeine

• Generic Name: magnesium hydroxide
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia, Milk of Magnesia, Pedia-Lax Chewable, Phillips Milk of Magnesia, Dulcolax Milk of Magnesia, Concentrated Phillips Milk of Magnesia

Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral. Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia reduces stomach acid, and increases water in the intestines which may induce bowel movements.

Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia is used as a laxative to relieve occasional constipation.

Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia is also used as an antacid to relieve indigestion, sour stomach, and heartburn.

Ex-Lax Milk of Magnesia may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

• Generic Name: acetaminophen / butalbital / caffeine / codeine
• Dosage Forms: capsules
• Other Brand Names: Fioricet with Codeine, Phrenilin with Caffeine and Codeine

Butalbital, acetaminophen, caffeine, and codeine combination is used to relieve symptoms of tension (or muscle contraction) headaches. Extended and repeated use of this product is not recommended.

Butalbital belongs to the group of medicines called barbiturates. They act in the central nervous system (CNS) to produce their effects.

Acetaminophen is used to relieve pain and reduce fever in patients. It does not become habit-forming when taken for a long time. But acetaminophen may cause other unwanted effects when taken in large doses, including serious liver damage. Although rare, use of acetaminophen has been reported to lead to liver transplantation and death, usually at high doses and when multiple acetaminophen-containing products have been used.

Caffeine is a CNS stimulant that is used with pain relievers to increase their effect. It has also been used for migraine headaches. Codeine belongs to the group of medicine called narcotic analgesics (pain medicines). It acts on the central nervous system (CNS) to relieve pain.

When butalbital or codeine is used for a long time or in large doses, it may become habit-forming, causing mental or physical dependence. However, people who have continuing pain should not let the fear of dependence keep them from using narcotics to relieve their pain. Mental dependence (addiction) is not likely to occur when narcotics or barbiturates are used for this purpose. Physical dependence may lead to withdrawal side effects when you suddenly stop taking the medicine. In patients who get headaches, the first symptom of withdrawal may be new (rebound) headaches.

This medicine is available only under a restricted distribution program called the Opioid Analgesic REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy) program.