What is Magnesium Citrate?
Magnesium citrate is a supplement that combines magnesium with citric acid. Magnesium is a naturally occurring element that is important to many systems in the body, especially muscles and nerves.
- Magnesium citrate is delivered as an oral tablet or as a liquid saline laxative.
- It increases intestinal water.
- It is used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation .
Uses of Magnesium Citrate
Magnesium citrate is primarily used for:
- Bowel evacuation before surgery or certain intestinal procedures like colonoscopy or radiography, often in combination with other products.
- Relief from constipation
- Addressing bowel irregularity.
- Serving as a nutritional supplement and treats acid indigestion
It works as a saline laxative by increasing fluid in the small intestine, typically resulting in bowel movements within 30 minutes to 3 hours.
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Get A Second OpinionSide effects of Magnesium Citrate
Some of the common side effects of Magnesium Citrate are:
- Abdominal cramp
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Some of the serious side effects of Magnesium Citrate are:
- Pain with bowel movement
- Rectal bleeding
- Painful or difficult while urination
- Flushing
- Light-headed feeling
- Weak or swallow breathing
- Muscle weakness
If you experience any serious symptoms, contact your doctor right away. While most people don't experience side effects, if you do have a reaction to magnesium citrate, avoid it and seek medical help. Your doctor prescribes medication based on its benefits outweighing potential side effects.
Precautions To Follow
Before taking Magnesium Citrate, talk with your doctor if you are allergic to it or any other medications.
Magnesium Citrate should be avoided if there is any serious medical condition like rectal bleeding and intestinal blockage.
Before using the medication, talk with your doctor if you have any medical history, such as:
- Bowel problems
- Heart disease
- Kidney disease
- Stomach and abdominal pain symptoms
How to take Magnesium Citrate?
- Follow the prescribed dosage and doctor's advice for the safe use of Magnesium citrate.
- Magnesium citrate is typically taken as a single daily dose or divided into multiple doses over the day.
- It should not be used for more than one week without a doctor's approval. It usually induces bowel movements within 30 minutes to 6 hours.
- Follow prescription instructions carefully. Mix the powder with 10 ounces of liquid and shake well.
- Refrigerate if needed, and discard unused solution after 36 hours.
Dosage:
The dosage of magnesium citrate can vary depending on the specific purpose for which it's being used and individual factors such as age, health status, and any underlying medical conditions. It's best to follow the instructions provided by the doctor.
- Liquid: 290 mg/5 ml
- Tablet: 100 mg
Missed Dose:
No immediate effect if missed, but follow the doctor's advice for best results.
Overdose:
Accidental overdose can occur, leading to harmful effects. Seek medical help if suspected.
Interactions:
Inform your doctor about all medications, including herbal products, before use.
Storage Instructions:
Store at room temperature (68°F to 77°F) away from heat, light, and moisture.
Magnesium citrate Vs miralax
| Magnesium citrate | Miralax |
|---|---|
| Magnesium is a naturally occurring element that is important to many systems in the body, especially muscles and nerves. Magnesium citrate also increases intestinal water | Miralax is a brand name over-the-counter (OTC) drug. It is classified as an osmotic laxative. |
| This product is being used to clean stools from the intestines prior to surgery or certain intestinal procedures (e.g., colonoscopy, radiography), usually with other products. | Miralax is used for the treatment of constipation. It is typically used for short-term treatment, but in some cases, it is used for long-term treatment of chronic (long-lasting) constipation |
Some of the serious side effects of Magnesium Citrate are:
|
Some of the common and serious side effects of Miralax are:
|
Citations
Magnesium oxide-catalysed reaction of carbon dioxide with an epoxide with retention of stereochemistry - Chemical Communications (RSC Publishing) Is magnesium citrate treatment effective on pain, clinical parameters and functional status in patients with fibromyalgia? Original Article Published: 22 January 2012 Volume 33, pages 167–172, (2013) Cite this articleReady to take control of your health journey? Book your appointment now and start your path towards wellness today!
Book an AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
Magnesium citrate increases fluid in the intestines, aiding bowel movements. It's used to cleanse the bowel before medical procedures or to relieve constipation.
Magnesium citrate shouldn't be used long-term, especially for chronic constipation. Regular use can make the body rely on it, making it hard to have bowel movements without laxatives.
The dosage of magnesium citrate depends on the reason for use. You are advised to follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor.
Yes, magnesium citrate helps clean out the bowel before medical procedures like colonoscopies by increasing fluid in the intestines, which makes it easier to empty the bowel.
Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative which is thought to work by increasing the fluid in the small intestine. It usually results in intestinal movement within 30 minutes to 3 hours.
Take magnesium citrate on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. Measure liquid medicine with a dosing syringe or with a special dosing spoon or medicine cup.
Magnesium citrate is safe for most, but those with kidney issues should use it cautiously or avoid it, as it may worsen kidney function.
