Magnesium Oxide

Dosage Forms Available

• Magnesium Oxide is available for oral use in the form of tablets, capsules, and liquid solutions.
• It is also available as extended-release tablets, which allow the magnesium to be released slowly into the body over time.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• It is suitable for adults and children.
• The specific age at which children can start taking this medicine varies; therefore, consulting a doctor for appropriate guidance is recommended.

Contraindications

• This medicine is contraindicated in patients with severe kidney disease.
• It is also contraindicated for those who have a known hypersensitivity to Magnesium Oxide.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This medicine can interact with antibiotics (such as tetracyclines and quinolones), bisphosphonates (like alendronate), diuretics (including furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide), proton pump inhibitors (like omeprazole), medications for seizures (such as gabapentin and phenytoin), psychiatric medications (like chlorpromazine and ziprasidone), thyroid hormone replacements (levothyroxine), heart medications (such as digoxin), treatments for low platelets (eltrombopag), immune system suppressants (mycophenolate), and drugs for bone disorders (tiludronate).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose might lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, confusion, slowed breathing, and an irregular heartbeat. If you suspect an overdose, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
• If you miss a dose, 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.

• To manage stomach upset, it may be beneficial to take the medication with food.
• If experiencing diarrhoea as a side effect, ensure adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This medicine does not usually affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. However, if you experience side effects such as dizziness or drowsiness, it is advisable to avoid performing tasks that require alertness.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The safety during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been fully established. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is wise to consult your doctor before starting this medicine.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Those with gastrointestinal conditions like inflammatory bowel disease or bowel obstruction should use this medicine cautiously.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Include magnesium-rich foods in your diet such as nuts (almonds, cashews), seeds (pumpkin seeds), legumes (black beans), whole grains (brown rice), leafy greens (spinach), fortified foods, dairy products, meats, seafood (salmon), and fruits (bananas) to naturally support your magnesium levels.
• Maintain adequate hydration especially if using Magnesium Oxide as a laxative to prevent dehydration.