1. The effect of magnesium hydroxide on the oral absorption of ibuprofen, ketoprofen and diclofenac was investigated in two randomized cross-over studies, both consisting of two phases. 2. Single doses of magnesium hydroxide (850 mg) or of water (150 ml) only were given to six healthy volunteers immediately after the ingestion of ibuprofen (400 mg, Study 1), ketoprofen (50 mg, Study 2) or diclofenac (50 mg, Study 2). Plasma drug concentrations were measured up to 24 h. 3. Magnesium hydroxide increased the area under the plasma ibuprofen concentration-time curve between 0 and 1 h by 65% (P less than 0.05) and the peak concentration of ibuprofen in plasma by 31% (P less than 0.01). The time to peak was shortened by about 0.5 h. The extent of bioavailability of ibuprofen was not increased by magnesium hydroxide. 4. Neither the rate nor the extent of absorption of ketoprofen or diclofenac was changed significantly by magnesium hydroxide. 5. When rapid onset of the analgesic effect of ibuprofen is required, concomitant ingestion of an antacid, which contains magnesium hydroxide without aluminium, is recommended.