Magnesium Citrate: Laxative And Kidney Stone Remedy

Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative that treats constipation by increasing fluid in the small intestine. It is available over the counter and is typically used to treat occasional constipation. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with kidney disease.

Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative

Magnesium citrate is a combination of the element magnesium and citric acid. It can be bought over the counter or may be prescribed. It comes in liquid form, as well as tablet or powder form. It is usually taken as a single daily dose or divided into two or more parts over one day. It should not be taken for more than one week unless a doctor advises otherwise.

Magnesium citrate is used to treat occasional constipation and to empty the colon before a colonoscopy or certain medical procedures. It works by causing water to be retained with the stool, which increases the number of bowel movements and softens the stool so it is easier to pass. This process is called osmosis. When there is more water in the intestines, the stool becomes softer or even watery.

Magnesium citrate is relatively gentle and usually results in a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours. It is available over the counter in many drug stores and does not require a prescription. It should be used under the direction of a healthcare provider. It is important to drink plenty of fluids after taking it to prevent dehydration.

It treats constipation by pulling water into the intestines

Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative that treats constipation by pulling water into the intestines. This process is called osmosis. When there is more water in the intestines, the stool becomes softer or even watery, making it easier to pass. This is especially helpful when stools are hard, dry, or lumpy, and difficult or painful to pass.

Magnesium citrate is available over the counter in many drugstores under brand names and as generics. It comes in liquid form, as well as a powder to be mixed with a liquid, and as a solution (liquid) to take by mouth. 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 take magnesium citrate exactly as directed.

Magnesium citrate is typically safe for adults to use as a laxative. However, it is not suitable for everyone, and it is important to check with a healthcare professional before taking it. It is not a good choice for treating chronic constipation and should not be used for long-term constipation relief. Excessive magnesium intake can lead to dehydration, diarrhoea, or electrolyte imbalances.

Magnesium citrate may also cause a few side effects. Typical side effects include stomach cramps or a bubbling feeling in the stomach, high magnesium levels, and changes in other electrolytes in the blood, such as sodium, calcium, or potassium. Diarrhoea is common after taking magnesium citrate. These side effects are usually mild and do not pose a serious risk to otherwise healthy people.

It may cause side effects like stomach cramps and high magnesium levels

Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative that treats occasional constipation. It is available over the counter and by prescription. It is generally safe to use, but in rare cases, it may cause mild to severe side effects.

Mild abdominal discomfort/cramps, gas, or nausea may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, it is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist.

In rare cases, magnesium citrate may cause more severe side effects, including high magnesium levels. This can lead to confusion, drowsiness, facial flushing, redness, sweating, muscle weakness, a fast or irregular heartbeat, and trouble breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.

It is important to note that the side effects of magnesium citrate are usually mild and that many people using this medication do not experience any serious side effects. However, as with any medication, it is always advisable to be aware of potential side effects and to consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

It's not suitable for everyone, e.g. those with kidney issues or electrolyte imbalances

Magnesium citrate is not suitable for everyone. It is important to consult a doctor before taking this medication, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking other medications.

People with kidney issues, such as kidney disease, should avoid taking magnesium citrate. This is because the medication can interact with kidney function and may cause further problems. It is crucial to discuss any kidney-related concerns with a healthcare professional before taking magnesium citrate.

Additionally, those with electrolyte imbalances should approach magnesium citrate with caution. While magnesium citrate is an osmotic laxative that pulls water into the intestines, it can also affect electrolyte levels in the blood, including sodium, calcium, and potassium. Excessive magnesium intake can lead to dehydration, diarrhea, and further electrolyte imbalances. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the potential impact on electrolyte levels and consult a doctor if you have any concerns.

Moreover, magnesium citrate can interfere with the absorption of certain medications. It is recommended to take other medications at least two hours before or after taking magnesium citrate to avoid any interactions. It is important to disclose all medications, vitamins, and supplements to your doctor or pharmacist to ensure safe usage.

Finally, magnesium citrate should not be used for an extended period. It is intended for short-term relief of occasional constipation and should not be used for more than one week without medical advice. Regular use of magnesium citrate can lead to laxative dependence, making it difficult to have bowel movements without the aid of laxatives.

It interacts with certain medications and antibiotics

Magnesium citrate interacts with certain medications and antibiotics, altering their effectiveness and causing side effects. It is important to consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking magnesium citrate to ensure safe usage and avoid potential health risks. Here are some ways in which magnesium citrate interacts with other substances:

Antibiotics

Magnesium citrate can interfere with the absorption of specific antibiotics, reducing their effectiveness. This includes quinolone antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin (Cipro) and tetracycline antibiotics like doxycycline (Vibramycin) and tetracycline (Sumycin). It is recommended to take magnesium citrate at least two hours before or after taking these antibiotics to minimise the interaction.

Digoxin

Magnesium citrate can affect the levels of digoxin (Lanoxin) in the body. Maintaining normal magnesium levels while taking digoxin is crucial, as low magnesium levels can enhance the adverse effects of digoxin, including heart palpitations and nausea. Additionally, digoxin can contribute to increased magnesium loss through urination. Close monitoring of magnesium levels by a healthcare provider is necessary to determine the need for magnesium supplementation in individuals taking digoxin.

Diuretics

Magnesium citrate may interact with certain diuretics, such as loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide or Lasix) and thiazide diuretics (including hydrochlorothiazide). These diuretics can deplete magnesium levels in the body. Therefore, individuals taking diuretics may require magnesium supplementation, as advised by their doctor.

Blood Pressure Medications

Magnesium citrate can potentially increase the likelihood of adverse side effects from calcium channel blockers, a type of blood pressure medication. These side effects may include dizziness, nausea, and fluid retention, especially in pregnant women taking nifedipine (Procardia). Other calcium channel blockers to be aware of include amlodipine (Norvasc), diltiazem (Cardizem), felodipine (Plendil), and verapamil (Calan).

Hormone Replacement Therapy for Menopause

Magnesium levels tend to decrease during menopause, and hormone replacement therapy may help prevent this loss. However, it is important for postmenopausal women or those on hormone replacement therapy to consult a healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of magnesium supplementation.

Levothyroxine

Magnesium-containing antacids have been reported to reduce the effectiveness of levothyroxine, a medication used for an underactive thyroid. As many people take laxatives containing magnesium without informing their doctor, this interaction can be significant.

Other Interactions

Magnesium citrate may also interact with penicillamine, tiludronate, alendronate, aminoglycoside antibiotics, corticosteroids, antacids, and insulin. These interactions can lead to decreased magnesium levels or interfere with the absorption of certain medications.

Frequently asked questions