Magnesium

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

• Magnesium is available in various forms for consumption and application, including tablets, capsules, and powders for oral use.

• It is also found in liquid forms which can be taken orally.

• Topical formulations such as creams and oils containing Magnesium are used for skin application.

• Additionally, Magnesium can be administered intravenously in medical settings for acute cases.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Magnesium supplements are suitable for both adults and children. However, the specific age from which they can be safely used varies based on the supplement's formulation and concentration.

Contraindications

• This mineral is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment or kidney failure.

• Individuals with myasthenia gravis should avoid using Magnesium unless advised by a doctor.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This mineral may interact with bisphosphonates (such as alendronate and risedronate), antibiotics (like tetracycline and ciprofloxacin), and diuretics (including loop diuretics like furosemide).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Magnesium might lead to symptoms such as nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal cramping, muscle weakness, difficulty breathing, and extremely low blood pressure. If you suspect an overdose, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

• If you miss a dose of Magnesium supplement, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• If experiencing mild diarrhoea as a side effect of oral Magnesium, consider taking the supplement with food or reducing the dose until your body adjusts.

• For those experiencing laxative effects from high doses, it may help to split the dose throughout the day or switch to a form of Magnesium with lower gastrointestinal impact.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Magnesium does not typically affect the ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience symptoms like dizziness or extreme fatigue after taking Magnesium supplements, it is advisable to avoid driving or engaging in heavy physical work until these symptoms subside.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The use of Magnesium during pregnancy and lactation should only be under medical advice. While it is generally considered safe, consulting a doctor ensures that the dosage is appropriate and that there are no risks associated with its use during these periods.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Individuals with severe renal impairment must exercise caution when taking Magnesium supplements due to the risk of accumulating to toxic levels in the body.

• Patients with bleeding disorders or those on anticoagulant therapy should discuss with their doctor before starting oral Magnesium as it may affect blood clotting mechanisms.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Include foods rich in Magnesium in your diet, such as nuts (almonds, cashews), seeds (pumpkin seeds), whole grains (brown rice, whole wheat bread), legumes (beans, lentils), and green leafy vegetables (spinach).

• Regular hydration can aid in maintaining optimal Magnesium levels as dehydration may affect electrolyte balance.

• Limiting intake of caffeine and alcohol can help optimise Magnesium absorption since excessive amounts may interfere with its retention in the body.

• Engage in regular physical activity which helps improve overall mineral absorption including that of Magnesium.

• For individuals prone to stress-induced Magnesium depletion, practices such as meditation or yoga might be beneficial in managing stress effectively.

Frequently asked questions

Terms & Conditions