Aluminium hydroxide
- Vaccine Affect
- Feb 12, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 18, 2024
Vaccines containing aluminium hydroxide:
DTaP/IPV/Hib/HepB (6 in 1)
Infanrix Hexa
Meningococcal B
Bexero
To date, the benefit of aluminium hydroxide-based adjuvants is not fully understood, in spite of its long-term usage.
Aluminium hydroxide has adverse effects, including macrophagic myofasciitis (MMF) and adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to aluminous adjuvants, which include aluminium neurotoxicity, autism spectrum disorder, and autoinflammatory syndrome. Currently, tetanus, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, human papillomavirus, Haemophilus influenzae type B, pneumococcal and meningococcal vaccines, and anthrax vaccines use aluminium hydroxide as an adjuvant.
As for the susceptibility and verification of the neurotoxicity of aluminium-based vaccination, including the development of Alzheimer’s disease and autism spectrum disorder, future well-designed studies are required.
Macrophagic myofasciitis and subcutaneous pseudolymphoma caused by aluminium adjuvants
By Hyunhee Kim, Ka Young Lim, Jeongwan Kang, Jin Woo Park & Sung-Hye Park.
What are side effects associated with using aluminum hydroxide?
Common side effects or health problems may include:
Nausea
Vomiting
Rebound hyperacidity
Aluminum-intoxication
Low blood phosphates (hypophosphatemia)
Chalky taste
Constipation (this could lead to hemorrhoids or bowel obstruction)
Fecal impaction
Stomach cramps
Milk-alkali syndrome
Softening of the bones
Serious side effects of aluminum hydroxide include:
Black/tarry stools
Mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion, deep sleep)
Pain with urination
Stomach/abdominal pain
Vomit that looks like coffee grounds
This document does not contain all possible side effects and others may occur. Check with your physician for additional information about side effects.
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using the medicine and call your doctor at once if you have:
Severe stomach pain or constipation,
Loss of appetite;
Pain when you urinate;
Muscle weakness, tiredness;
Extreme drowsiness; or
Bloody or tarry stools,
Coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
Less serious side effects may be more likely, and you may have none at all.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
Uses of Aluminium Hydroxide
Antacid: Aluminium hydroxide is widely used as an antacid to neutralize excess stomach acid. It helps to relieve symptoms of heartburn, indigestion, and acid reflux by reducing the acidity in the stomach.
Pharmaceuticals: Aluminium hydroxide is used as an active ingredient in certain medications, including over-the-counter and prescription drugs. It is used to treat conditions such as peptic ulcers and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Water Treatment: Aluminium hydroxide is used in water treatment processes to remove impurities and suspended particles. It acts as a flocculant and coagulant, helping to clarify water and improve its quality.
Flame Retardant: Aluminium hydroxide is used as a flame retardant in various materials, including plastics, textiles, and coatings. It releases water vapor when exposed to fire, which helps to cool and suppress the flame.
Industrial Applications: Aluminium hydroxide is used in various industrial processes, such as manufacturing ceramics, glass, and aluminum chemicals. It is also used as a filler in the production of rubber, plastics, and paper.
Cosmetics: Aluminium hydroxide is used in cosmetic products, particularly in skincare formulations. It acts as a thickening agent, absorbent, and pH adjuster in products like lotions, creams, and foundations.
Veterinary Medicine: Aluminium hydroxide is used in veterinary medicine as an adjuvant in vaccines. It helps to enhance the immune response and improve the effectiveness of the vaccine.
