Magnesium trisilicate

Abstract

1. Medicinal magnesium trisilicate is defined as a “compound represented by the formula H4Mg2Si3O10and giving the pure diffraction radiograph of the natural mineral sepiolite No. 1.” The ratio MgO:SiO2 = 1:2.24 (gravimetric). 2. It is shown that many of the marketed brands fail entirely to conform to these basal requirements. 3. The following therapeutic applications are discussed: (a) the continuous control of gastric acidity in hyperacid states ; (b) the production of gastric anacidity without systemic alkalosis ; (c) the utilization of the general adsorbent properties of the silicate in hypo-acid conditions. 4. It is demonstrated that: (a) Artificial sepiolite No. 1 does not cause alkalosis. (b) The extent and speed of interaction with acids diminish rapidly at hypochlorhydric strengths. Within certain limits of dosage the neutralizing effect is automatically adjusted to the demands of the gastric juice, (c) Within a certain range a useful amount of the silicate can be given in hypochlorhydric states without its neutralizing the gastric contents to such an extent as to destroy peptic activity. 5. An explanation of the variability of its mildly laxative action is put forward. 6. Schemes of dosage appropriate to hyperchlorhydric and hypochlorhydric conditions respectively are discussed. © 1937, British Medical Journal Publishing Group. All rights reserved.