Aluminium

A light, metallic element found in bauxite and various other minerals. Aluminium compounds are used in antacid medications and in antiperspirants. Most of the aluminium taken into the body is excreted. Excessive amounts are toxic and are stored in the lungs, brain, liver, and thyroid gland, where they may result in organ damage. Certain industrial processes give off fumes containing aluminium into the air. These fumes can cause fibrosis of lung tissue. Drugs that contain aluminium may interfere with the absorption of other drugs and, therefore, should not be taken at the same time.