Mag Citrate Ineffective? Try These Tips

If you have taken magnesium citrate and it doesn't work, you should contact your doctor promptly. It may be that you need to wait longer for the medication to take effect, or you may need to take another dose. However, if you experience any severe side effects, such as diarrhoea, abdominal pain, decreased weight, weakness, or rectal bleeding, you should seek medical help immediately. It is also important to drink plenty of water after taking magnesium citrate to prevent dehydration.

Drink more water

Staying hydrated is crucial to maintaining normal bowel habits. Drinking plenty of water is essential, as it helps to prevent dehydration, a serious side effect of magnesium citrate. It is recommended to drink a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) after taking magnesium citrate, unless otherwise directed by a doctor. This is important to prevent dehydration and other serious side effects.

In addition to drinking water, it is advised to consume four to six 8-ounce glasses of water daily to maintain normal bowel habits. This should be coupled with a diet that includes foods high in fiber and regular exercise.

It is also important to note that magnesium citrate should be taken with a full glass of water. The liquid medicine should be shaken before consumption and measured with the supplied measuring device, not a kitchen spoon.

If you are experiencing constipation and magnesium citrate is not providing relief, it is recommended to consult your doctor. They may advise you to increase your water intake, make dietary changes, or try milder products such as stool softeners or bulk-forming laxatives.

Try a suppository

If you've tried magnesium citrate and it hasn't worked, you could try a suppository. This is a type of laxative that is inserted directly into the rectum, where it dissolves and stimulates the bowels to produce a bowel movement. They are typically used for the relief of occasional constipation and can be an effective alternative to oral laxatives like magnesium citrate.

There are a few different types of suppositories available, including:

• Liquid glycerin suppositories: These are made from a liquid form of glycerin, which is a natural lubricant that can help to soften stools and stimulate bowel movements.
• Bisacodyl suppositories: Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative that works by increasing the movement of the intestines, helping to move stool through the colon.
• Glycerin and bisacodyl suppositories: These suppositories contain both glycerin and bisacodyl, combining the lubricating and stimulating effects of both types.

To use a suppository, follow the instructions provided with the product. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after insertion. It is generally recommended to lie on your left side with your right knee drawn up towards your chest. Gently insert the suppository into the rectum, using your finger, and remain lying down for a few minutes to allow it to dissolve and start working.

It is important to note that suppositories are meant to be used occasionally and should not be relied upon as a long-term solution for constipation. If you find yourself frequently constipated, it is important to speak to your doctor or healthcare provider for advice and to rule out any underlying medical conditions. They can help you determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs.

Consult a doctor

If you have taken magnesium citrate and it hasn't had the desired effect, it is important to consult a doctor or healthcare professional. This is particularly important if you are experiencing any severe symptoms, such as rectal bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or a slow or irregular heartbeat. These could be signs of a more serious medical problem.

Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative that works by increasing fluid in the small intestine, making it easier for stool to pass. It is typically used to treat constipation or to clean the stool from the intestines before certain medical procedures. However, it is not suitable for everyone and can cause side effects such as dehydration, diarrhoea, and abdominal discomfort.

If you are experiencing constipation, it is important to address the underlying cause, which may be a low-fibre diet, immobility, dehydration, or certain medical conditions. In some cases, making lifestyle changes, such as increasing your fluid intake, eating more high-fibre foods, and exercising regularly, may be enough to relieve constipation without the need for medication.

It is always best to consult a doctor or healthcare professional before taking any medication, including magnesium citrate, to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for you. They will be able to advise you on the correct dosage and provide guidance on how to take the medication safely.

Try a different magnesium product

If you are taking magnesium citrate and it is not working for you, it may be worth trying a different magnesium product.

Magnesium is a common mineral in the body, playing a role in over 600 metabolic reactions, including energy production, protein formation, and blood pressure regulation. However, some people need extra help to get enough magnesium.

There are many different types of magnesium products available, and magnesium citrate is just one option. For example, you could try:

• Magnesium glycinate: This is a compound of magnesium and glycine, an amino acid. Research indicates that people tolerate it well and that it causes minimal side effects. This means it may be a good option for people who require higher doses of magnesium or who experience side effects when using other types.
• Magnesium lactate: This is a compound of magnesium and lactic acid. A 2017 analysis found that magnesium lactate is easily absorbed in the gut.
• Magnesium malate: This is a compound of magnesium and malic acid. Some evidence suggests that it is highly bioavailable and well-tolerated. A 2019 animal study found that magnesium malate was the fastest to absorb after a single dose.
• Magnesium chloride: This is a type of salt that can be found in topical magnesium products, such as magnesium oils and some bath salts. It can also be taken internally, as it is well-absorbed by the intestines. However, it may cause digestive side effects.
• Magnesium sulfate: This is the form of magnesium found in Epsom salts, often added to baths and foot soaks to soothe aching muscles. However, there is little evidence that the body can absorb much magnesium from these baths.
• Magnesium oxide: This type of magnesium is used to treat constipation or as an antacid for heartburn or indigestion. It is also present in some dietary supplements, although the body does not absorb it well.
• Magnesium taurate: This is a compound of magnesium and taurine. Limited evidence suggests that it may lower blood pressure and protect the cardiovascular system.

When choosing a magnesium product, it is important to consider how much magnesium you already consume in your diet, whether you need a supplement or topical product, how much additional magnesium you need, and whether you prefer a topical or oral form. It is also important to seek the advice of a doctor or dietitian before trying a new magnesium supplement.

Try a non-magnesium product

If you have taken magnesium citrate and it hasn't worked, it's important to contact your doctor promptly. In the meantime, there are a few non-magnesium products you can try.

Firstly, you could try a liquid glycerin suppository. This can help to stimulate the nerves in the rectum, encouraging a bowel movement.

Alternatively, you could try a different osmotic laxative, such as polyethylene glycol (Miralax). Osmotic laxatives work by drawing water into the intestines to soften the stool, in a similar way to magnesium citrate. However, they do not contain magnesium.

If you are experiencing constipation, it's important to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated. Dehydration can be a cause of constipation, so it's crucial to keep fluid levels up. In addition, drinking water can help to prevent side effects such as diarrhoea, which can sometimes occur after taking magnesium citrate.

Finally, increasing your fibre intake can help to prevent constipation. Fibre adds bulk to the stool, helping it to pass through the intestines more easily. Try to eat more whole-grain cereals and pasta, fruits, and vegetables, all of which are good sources of fibre.

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