Posted 15 January 2010 - 07:20 AM
Magnesium Citrate Side Effects
Magnesium citrate does not cause any harm, provided it is taken in the correct dosage. If taken in excess, it has a number of side effects. The permissible dosage of magnesium citrate for adults is 11-25 mg. Magnesium citrate is not suitable for children who are below the age of 6 years. For children above 6 years, the dosage should not exceed 6 mg. Magnesium citrate is safe for elderly people, provided the dosage is appropriate. It is not advisable for use by people with certain health problems. Some common side effects of magnesium citrate are listed below:
* Excessive intake of magnesium citrate can lead to severe diarrhea.
* It can also cause giddiness, headache, throat pain and skin rashes. Sometimes, it can cause blockage of the intestines too.
* It does not have any adverse effects when taken with any other drug. However, it is advisable to keep a gap of, at least two hours between consumption of magnesium citrate and any other drug.
* Constipation often hurts the stomach due to pressure from the intestines, and this pain may be aggravated by the intake of magnesium citrate, which forces the fecal matter through the intestines.
* Patients suffering from constipation should not take magnesium citrate for a prolonged period of time, as it can damage the natural metabolic power of the bowels, resulting in failure of the bowel to carry out its function without the aid of any laxatives.
* Pregnant women or lactating mothers should strictly avoid magnesium citrate drugs, as they can enter the body of the embryo or of the infant (through breast milk).
* Magnesium citrate is not suited for those who have kidney diseases, heart ailments or any history of anal fissures.
Magnesium citrate side effects do not cause any threat to life. However, it gives the best results when taken on an empty stomach, with or followed by ample amount of liquids like water or juice. Intake of sufficient amounts of water or juice prevents any kind of complications.