Maalox Total Relief to get new name, packaging

WASHINGTON (AP) - The maker of Maalox is changing the name of its most potent medication because health regulators say consumers are mistaking it for a milder stomach reliever. Maalox Total Relief is an upset stomach reliever and anti-diarrheal medication, while traditional Maalox liquid products Maalox Advanced Regular Strength and Maalox Advanced Maximum Strength are antacids.

The Food and Drug Administration says Maalox Total Relief contains potent drug ingredients that can cause internal bleeding. The anti-diarrhea medication is often confused with traditional Maalox, a gentler anti-acid formula.

The FDA says manufacturer Novartis will rename Maalox Total Relief and change its packaging to avoid confusion.

The medication contains ingredients similar to aspirin, which can exacerbate bleeding in patients with stomach ulcers and blood clotting problems.

Novartis will also conduct an educational campaign on the differences between Maalox products.

Read more on the FDA website.