Magnesium Citrate: Eating After Laxative Use

Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative that treats constipation by increasing fluid in the small intestine, making it easier to pass stool. It is recommended to drink a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240ml) after taking the medication to prevent dehydration. While magnesium citrate is typically safe for adults, it may not be suitable for everyone, and it is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking it. It is also advised to maintain a normal diet, drink plenty of fluids, and eat foods high in fiber to support bowel health.

What is magnesium citrate?

Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative that treats occasional constipation. It is a combination of the element magnesium and citric acid. It can be bought over the counter or may be prescribed. It is available in liquid form, as well as a powder to be mixed with a liquid.

Magnesium citrate works by increasing the amount of water in the small intestine, which softens the stool, making it easier to pass. It also increases pressure, prompting the muscles in the intestines to move the stool. It is usually taken as a single daily dose or divided into two or more parts over one day. It is important to follow the directions on the product label carefully and not to take more or less than the recommended amount.

Magnesium citrate is also used to empty the colon (large intestine, bowel) before a colonoscopy or certain medical procedures. It is typically used in combination with other products for this purpose.

Magnesium citrate may cause side effects such as mild abdominal discomfort, gas, or nausea. More serious side effects are uncommon but can include severe abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and allergic reactions. It is important to drink a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) after taking magnesium citrate to prevent dehydration.

How does it work?

Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative that treats occasional constipation. It is available over the counter (OTC) and can help produce a bowel movement in 30 minutes to 6 hours. It is typically safe for adults to use as a laxative, but it is not suitable for everyone. It is not a good choice for treating chronic constipation or constipation that requires ongoing treatment.

Magnesium citrate works by drawing water into the intestine to soften stool and make it easier to pass. It increases the amount of water the intestine absorbs, which softens the stool and increases pressure, prompting the muscles in the intestines to move the stool. This is why magnesium citrate is often used to clean stool from the intestines before surgery or certain bowel procedures, such as a colonoscopy. It is also used to treat occasional constipation, but it should not be used regularly for this purpose.

Magnesium citrate can be taken as a powder mixed with liquid or as an oral solution. It is usually taken as a single daily dose or divided into two or more parts over one day. It is important to follow the directions on the product package or prescription label and not to take more or less than directed. It should also be used with caution, as it may cause side effects such as loose stools, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, and high magnesium levels. It may also interact with certain medications, and people with certain medical conditions, such as kidney problems or electrolyte imbalances, should avoid taking it.

What are the side effects?

Magnesium citrate is generally safe for adults to use as a laxative, but it may cause some side effects. It is important to note that magnesium citrate should not be used for long-term treatment of constipation and is not suitable for everyone.

• Abdominal Discomfort: This is a common side effect of magnesium citrate and usually includes stomach cramps or a bubbling feeling in the stomach. It can also lead to diarrhoea, which is common after taking this laxative.
• High Magnesium Levels: Magnesium citrate can cause an increase in magnesium levels in the body, which may lead to a change in other electrolytes in the blood, such as sodium, calcium, or potassium.
• Dehydration: Excessive use of magnesium citrate can lead to dehydration, as it draws water into the intestines. It is important to drink plenty of fluids before and after taking this laxative to prevent dehydration.
• Electrolyte Imbalances: Overuse of magnesium citrate, especially in people with other medical conditions such as kidney disease, can cause electrolyte imbalances. This is because the body may lose too much fluid, affecting the balance of electrolytes.
• Laxative Dependence: Using magnesium citrate too often can lead to a loss of normal bowel function and an inability to have a bowel movement without the use of the product. This means that the body can become dependent on the laxative to function normally.
• Allergic Reaction: Although rare, some individuals may experience an allergic reaction to magnesium citrate. Symptoms may include a rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Nervous System Issues: In some cases, magnesium citrate may cause nervous system issues, leading to confusion or depression.
• Cardiovascular Issues: There is a risk of cardiovascular problems such as low blood pressure or an irregular heartbeat.
• Metabolic Issues: Magnesium citrate may cause metabolic issues such as hypocalcemia (low calcium levels) or hypomagnesemia (low magnesium levels).

Who should avoid it?

Magnesium citrate is generally safe for adults to use as a laxative, but it is not suitable for everyone. It is always recommended to check with a healthcare professional before taking it.

People with the following conditions should avoid taking magnesium citrate:

• Kidney or renal insufficiency
• Electrolyte imbalance
• A sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted over a week
• A magnesium- or sodium-restricted diet
• Neuromuscular disease
• Dehydration
• Low magnesium levels
• Heart conditions or damaged heart muscles
• Major kidney disorders
• High potassium levels
• Rectal bleeding
• Obstruction in the colon or stomach

Magnesium citrate may also interact with some medications, including specific antibiotics and drugs that lower calcium concentration in the urine, such as potassium or sodium phosphate. It can also decrease the body's ability to absorb some medications. Therefore, it is essential to consult a doctor before using magnesium citrate if you are taking any other medication.

What are the alternatives?

Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative that treats occasional constipation by increasing the amount of water in the intestine, softening the stool, and making it easier to pass. However, it is not suitable for everyone and should not be used regularly.

Magnesium Hydroxide

Magnesium hydroxide, commonly known as Milk of Magnesia, is an over-the-counter product that draws water into the intestines to help soften stool and encourage bowel movements. It is also used to reduce stomach acid and treat digestive symptoms such as heartburn or an upset stomach.

Epsom Salt

Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, works similarly to other forms of magnesium by drawing water into the intestines and softening the stool. It is important to ensure that the appropriate amount of Epsom salt is dissolved in water to avoid irritation.

Increasing Fiber Intake

For those who cannot take magnesium due to medical conditions or intolerance, increasing fiber intake is an alternative option. Soluble fiber adds bulk to the stool, aiding its passage through the intestines. OTC fiber supplements often contain fiber from plant sources such as psyllium husk, glucomannan, or wheat germ. Additionally, eating whole-grain cereals, pasta, fruits, and vegetables can help improve constipation symptoms.

Polyethylene Glycol (Miralax)

Polyethylene glycol is another option for relieving constipation.

Bisacodyl (Dulcolax)

Bisacodyl is a medication that can be used to treat constipation.

Bulk-Forming Laxatives

Bulk-forming laxatives are milder products that can be used to treat constipation. They work by adding bulk to the stool, making it easier to pass.

Stool Softeners

Stool softeners are another type of milder product that can be used to soften the stool and make it easier to pass.

Frequently asked questions