Magnesium citrate drug interactions. Magnesium Citrate: Uses, Interactions, Side Effects, and Dosage Guide

03.07.202324.06.2023 by alexxlab

What are the main uses of magnesium citrate. How does magnesium citrate interact with other medications. What are the potential side effects of taking magnesium citrate. What is the recommended dosage for magnesium citrate.

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Understanding Magnesium Citrate: An Overview

Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative commonly used for bowel cleansing before medical procedures and treating constipation. This compound works by increasing fluid in the small intestine, typically resulting in a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 3 hours after ingestion.

As with any medication, it’s crucial to understand its proper use, potential interactions, and side effects. This comprehensive guide will explore the various aspects of magnesium citrate to help you make informed decisions about its use.

Primary Uses of Magnesium Citrate

Magnesium citrate serves several important medical purposes:

Bowel preparation before surgery or diagnostic procedures (e.g., colonoscopy, radiography)
Short-term relief of constipation
As a supplement to increase magnesium levels in the body

While effective for constipation relief, healthcare professionals often recommend milder alternatives like stool softeners or bulk-forming laxatives for regular use.

Bowel Preparation

For medical procedures requiring a clear digestive tract, magnesium citrate is often prescribed alongside other cleansing products. The timing of administration is crucial and should be precisely followed as per your doctor’s instructions.

Constipation Relief

When used for constipation, magnesium citrate provides quick relief. However, it’s not intended for long-term use without medical supervision.

Magnesium Citrate Drug Interactions

Understanding potential drug interactions is vital for safe use of magnesium citrate. According to Drugs.com, there are 251 known drug interactions with magnesium citrate, categorized as follows:

4 major interactions
246 moderate interactions
1 minor interaction

Additionally, there are 3 disease interactions to be aware of. These numbers highlight the importance of consulting with a healthcare provider before using magnesium citrate, especially if you’re taking other medications.

Common Drug Interactions

Some frequently checked interactions include:

Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine)
Aspirin
Eliquis (apixaban)
Levothyroxine
Metoprolol

These interactions can range from decreased effectiveness of medications to increased risk of side effects. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you’re taking.

Side Effects of Magnesium Citrate

While generally safe when used as directed, magnesium citrate can cause several side effects. Understanding these potential effects can help you recognize when to seek medical attention.

Common Side Effects

Most side effects of magnesium citrate are mild and may include:

Abdominal discomfort or cramps
Nausea
Gas or bloating
Diarrhea

Serious Side Effects

In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

Severe abdominal pain
Rectal bleeding
Signs of an allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness)
Symptoms of magnesium toxicity (muscle weakness, confusion, irregular heartbeat)

Proper Dosage and Administration

The correct dosage of magnesium citrate depends on several factors, including the intended use, age, and individual health conditions. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the product packaging.

General Dosage Guidelines

For adults and children 12 years and older:

Constipation relief: 195 to 300 mL orally as a single dose
Bowel preparation: Dosage varies; follow your doctor’s instructions precisely

For children under 12, consult a pediatrician for appropriate dosing.

Administration Tips

Refrigerate the solution to improve taste (do not freeze)
Drink a full glass of water (8 ounces) after taking magnesium citrate
Stay well-hydrated to prevent dehydration, especially if experiencing diarrhea

Precautions and Warnings

While magnesium citrate is generally safe for most people when used as directed, certain individuals should exercise caution or avoid its use altogether.

Who Should Avoid Magnesium Citrate?

Magnesium citrate may not be suitable for individuals with:

Kidney disease or impaired renal function
Heart conditions
Intestinal obstruction or inflammatory bowel disease
Rectal bleeding of unknown cause
Severe abdominal pain

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using magnesium citrate.

Magnesium Citrate in Special Populations

Certain groups may require special consideration when using magnesium citrate:

Elderly Patients

Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of magnesium citrate and may require lower doses. They should be monitored closely for side effects and electrolyte imbalances.

Children

Pediatric dosing differs from adult dosing. Always consult a pediatrician before administering magnesium citrate to children.

Patients with Chronic Conditions

Individuals with chronic health conditions, especially those affecting the kidneys or heart, should use magnesium citrate only under close medical supervision.

Alternatives to Magnesium Citrate

While magnesium citrate is effective for its intended uses, there are several alternatives available for constipation relief and bowel preparation:

Other Laxatives

Bulk-forming laxatives (e.g., psyllium)
Stool softeners (e.g., docusate sodium)
Stimulant laxatives (e.g., bisacodyl)
Osmotic laxatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol)

Natural Remedies

For mild constipation, natural remedies may be effective:

Increased fiber intake
Adequate hydration
Regular exercise
Probiotic foods or supplements

Always consult with a healthcare provider before switching medications or trying new treatments.

Monitoring and Follow-up

When using magnesium citrate, especially for extended periods or in preparation for medical procedures, proper monitoring is essential.

What to Monitor

Bowel movements: Frequency and consistency
Hydration status
Electrolyte levels (if used long-term or in high doses)
Any unusual symptoms or side effects

When to Seek Medical Attention

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

No bowel movement within 3 hours of taking magnesium citrate (when used for constipation)
Severe or persistent abdominal pain
Signs of dehydration (excessive thirst, dry mouth, decreased urination)
Rectal bleeding
Symptoms of allergic reaction or magnesium toxicity

Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are important, especially if using magnesium citrate for chronic constipation or recurrent medical procedures.

Magnesium Citrate and Nutritional Considerations

While primarily used as a laxative, magnesium citrate also contributes to the body’s magnesium levels. Understanding its role in nutrition can help users make informed decisions about supplementation and diet.

Magnesium’s Role in the Body

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in numerous bodily functions:

Muscle and nerve function
Energy production
Bone health
Heart rhythm regulation
Blood glucose control

Dietary Sources of Magnesium

While magnesium citrate can supplement magnesium intake, it’s preferable to obtain this mineral through diet when possible. Good dietary sources include:

Leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale)
Nuts and seeds
Whole grains
Legumes
Avocados
Dark chocolate

Balancing magnesium intake through diet and supplementation (when necessary) can support overall health and potentially reduce the need for laxatives.

Storage and Handling of Magnesium Citrate

Proper storage and handling of magnesium citrate ensure its effectiveness and safety:

Storage Guidelines

Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat
Keep the container tightly closed
May be refrigerated to improve taste, but do not freeze
Keep out of reach of children

Expiration and Disposal

Check the expiration date before use and dispose of expired products properly. Do not use magnesium citrate past its expiration date, as its effectiveness and safety may be compromised.

For safe disposal, follow local regulations or ask your pharmacist about medication take-back programs in your area.

Understanding Magnesium Citrate Labels

Reading and understanding product labels is crucial for safe and effective use of magnesium citrate:

Key Information on Labels

Active ingredient and strength
Dosage instructions
Warnings and contraindications
Inactive ingredients (important for those with allergies or sensitivities)
Lot number and expiration date

Generic vs. Brand Name Products

Magnesium citrate is available in both generic and brand name formulations. Generic versions are typically less expensive but contain the same active ingredient. When choosing between generic and brand name products, consider:

Cost
Insurance coverage
Personal preference
Any differences in inactive ingredients

Consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have questions about choosing between generic and brand name magnesium citrate products.

Magnesium Citrate in Clinical Research

Ongoing research continues to explore the potential uses and effects of magnesium citrate beyond its traditional applications:

Recent Studies

Some areas of current research include:

Efficacy in colonoscopy preparation compared to other bowel cleansing agents
Potential role in managing certain types of kidney stones
Effects on bone health and osteoporosis prevention
Impact on cardiovascular health

Future Directions

Researchers are investigating:

Optimal dosing strategies for various conditions
Long-term effects of magnesium supplementation
Potential applications in metabolic disorders

As research progresses, our understanding of magnesium citrate’s benefits and potential uses may expand, possibly leading to new applications in medicine and nutrition.

In conclusion, magnesium citrate is a versatile compound with important medical applications, particularly in bowel preparation and constipation relief. While generally safe when used as directed, it’s crucial to be aware of potential interactions, side effects, and proper usage guidelines. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new medication regimen, including magnesium citrate, to ensure it’s appropriate for your individual health needs and circumstances.

Magnesium citrate Interactions – Drugs.com

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There are 251 drugs known to interact with
magnesium citrate, along with
3 disease interactions.

Of the total drug interactions,
4 are major, 246 are moderate, and 1 is minor.

Does magnesium citrate interact with my other drugs?

Enter other medications to view a detailed report.

View all 251 medications that may interact with magnesium citrate
View magnesium citrate disease interactions (3)

Most frequently checked interactions

View interaction reports for magnesium citrate and the medicines listed below.

Major
Moderate
Minor
Unknown

Adderall (amphetamine / dextroamphetamine)
Aspirin Low Strength (aspirin)
Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
Claritin (loratadine)
CoQ10 (ubiquinone)
Cymbalta (duloxetine)
D3 (cholecalciferol)
Eliquis (apixaban)
Fish Oil (omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids)
Flonase (fluticasone nasal)
Glucosamine & Chondroitin with MSM (chondroitin / glucosamine / methylsulfonylmethane)
Iron Sulfate (ferrous sulfate)
Lexapro (escitalopram)
Lipitor (atorvastatin)
Lyrica (pregabalin)
Metoprolol Succinate ER (metoprolol)
MiraLAX (polyethylene glycol 3350)
Omega-3 (omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids)
Probiotic Formula (bifidobacterium infantis / lactobacillus acidophilus)
Singulair (montelukast)
Synthroid (levothyroxine)
Tylenol (acetaminophen)
Vitamin B Complex 100 (multivitamin)
Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin)
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)
Xanax (alprazolam)
Zinc (zinc sulfate)
Zyrtec (cetirizine)

Magnesium citrate disease interactions

There are 3 disease interactions with magnesium citrate which include:

inflammatory bowel disease
intestinal obstruction disorders
renal dysfunction

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Drug Interaction Classification

These classifications are only a guideline. The relevance of a particular drug interaction to a specific individual is difficult to determine. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting or stopping any medication.
Major	Highly clinically significant. Avoid combinations; the risk of the interaction outweighs the benefit.
Moderate	Moderately clinically significant. Usually avoid combinations; use it only under special circumstances.
Minor	Minimally clinically significant. Minimize risk; assess risk and consider an alternative drug, take steps to circumvent the interaction risk and/or institute a monitoring plan.
Unknown	No interaction information available.

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Medical Disclaimer

Magnesium Citrate Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

This product is used to clean stool from the intestines before surgery or certain bowel procedures (such as colonoscopy, radiography), usually with other products. It may also be used for relief of constipation. However, milder products (such as stool softeners, bulk-forming laxatives) should be used whenever possible for constipation. Magnesium citrate is a saline laxative that is thought to work by increasing fluid in the small intestine. It usually results in a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 3 hours.

How to use magnesium citrate oral

Read and follow all directions on the product package. If your doctor has directed you to use this product before surgery or a bowel procedure, your doctor should tell you how long before the surgery/procedure you should take this product. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. To improve taste, this product may be chilled in the refrigerator before use. Do not freeze.

Dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to treatment. Drink a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters) after taking this product unless otherwise directed by your doctor. Doing so will help prevent serious side effects (such as dehydration).

If this product is used too frequently, it may cause loss of normal bowel function and an inability to have a bowel movement without using the product (laxative dependence). If you notice symptoms of overuse, such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, decreased weight, or weakness, contact your doctor promptly.

Avoid taking tetracycline/quinolone antibiotics (such as doxycycline, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin) within 2 hours before or after this product. Doing so may decrease the effect of the antibiotic.

If this product fails to produce a bowel movement, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, contact your doctor promptly.

Side Effects

Mild abdominal discomfort/cramps, gas, or nausea may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

If your doctor has directed you to use this medication, remember that your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: diarrhea that doesn’t stop, stomach/abdominal pain that is severe or doesn’t go away, slow/irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes (such as confusion, unusual drowsiness), muscle weakness, bloody stools, rectal bleeding.

Diarrhea that doesn’t stop may result in dehydration. Contact your doctor promptly if you notice any symptoms of dehydration, such as unusual decreased urination, unusual dry mouth/increased thirst, lack of tears, dizziness/lightheadedness, or pale/wrinkled skin.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking magnesium citrate, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: rectal bleeding, bowel problems (such as blockage, ulcerative colitis, hemorrhoids), heart disease (such as irregular heartbeat), kidney disease, current stomach/abdominal symptoms (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn’t stop, pain, cramping).

Consult your doctor before using this product if you have had a sudden change in bowel habits lasting more than 2 weeks, or if you need to use a laxative for more than 1 week. These could be symptoms of a serious medical problem.

Children younger than 2 years may be at greater risk for dehydration while using this drug.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This drug passes into breast milk and is unlikely to cause harm to a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug are: digoxin, sodium polystyrene sulfonate, tetracycline/quinolone antibiotics (such as tetracycline, ciprofloxacin).

Does magnesium citrate oral interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat, mental/mood changes (such as confusion).

Keep all medical and lab appointments.

To maintain normal bowel habits, it is important to drink plenty of fluids (four to six 8-ounce glasses daily), eat foods high in fiber, and exercise regularly.

Not applicable.

Refer to storage information on the package label. If you have any questions about storage, ask your pharmacist. Do not freeze. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.