Magnesium citrate is a drug used to treat constipation or constipation. In addition, this drug can also be used as a mineral supplement to treat magnesium deficiency.
Magnesium citrate works by retaining and increasing the water content in the stool. This way of working will make the stool consistency softer and stimulate bowel movements. That way, the stool will be easier to remove.
Once consumed, the effect of the drug in stimulating bowel movements will generally appear within 30 minutes to 6 hours.
Trademarks of magnesium citrate: -
What is Magnesium Citrate
| class | Free medicine |
| Category | Supplements and laxatives |
| Benefit | As a mineral supplement and to treat constipation |
| Consumed by | Adults and children |
| Magnesium citrate for pregnant and lactating women | Category C: Animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but there have been no controlled studies in pregnant women. The drug should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Magnesium citrate may be absorbed into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without consulting your doctor first. |
| Drug form | Tablets, capsules, syrup |
Warning Before Consuming Magnesium Citrate
Even though it is included in the class of over-the-counter drugs, there are several things you should pay attention to before taking magnesium citrate, including:
- Do not take magnesium citrate if you are allergic to this drug.
- Consult your doctor about using magnesium citrate if you have or are experiencing hemorrhoids , intestinal obstruction, ulcerative colitis , heart disease, or kidney disease .
- Talk to your doctor about using magnesium citrate if you have severe stomach pain or persistent nausea and vomiting .
- Consult your doctor about using magnesium citrate if you are pregnant, nursing, or planning a pregnancy.
- Consult your doctor if you plan to take magnesium citrate with certain medications, supplements or herbal products.
- Immediately consult a doctor if you experience an allergic drug reaction, overdose, or serious side effects after using magnesium citrate.
Dosage and Rules for Using Magnesium Citrate
The following are common doses of magnesium citrate based on the intended use, gender, and age of the patient:
Purpose: Nutritional supplement
- Adults 19–30 years: For men, the dose is 400 mg per day. For women, the dose is 310–350 mg per day.
- Adults over 30 years of age: For men, the dose is 420 mg per day. For women, the dose is 320–360 mg per day.
Purpose: Overcoming constipation
- Adults: 195–300 ml per day, can be consumed once a day or divided into several times. An alternative dose is 2–4 tablets at bedtime.
- Children 2–6 years: 60–90 ml per day, once a day or divided into several servings. The maximum dose is 90 ml per day.
- Children aged 6–12 years: 90–210 ml per day, once daily or divided into several servings.
How to Use Magnesium Citrate Properly
Always follow the doctor 's advice and read the instructions on the drug packaging before taking magnesium citrate.
Take magnesium citrate on an empty stomach, for example 1 hour before eating or 2 hours after eating. Swallow magnesium citrate tablets or capsules with the help of a full glass of water.
Use the measuring spoon provided on the drug packaging to determine the dose of magnesium citrate syrup. Do not use other measuring tools, such as a tablespoon, because the dosage can be different. Drink a full glass of water after consuming magnesium citrate syrup.
Magnesium citrate will work after 30 minutes to 6 hours after the drug is consumed. Consult a doctor if constipation is not resolved after 7 days after consuming magnesium citrate, because this drug should not be used for more than 7 days.
Apart from consuming magnesium citrate, you are advised to eat foods high in fiber, such as green vegetables or fruits, to prevent constipation. You also need to drink about 6-8 glasses of water a day. In addition, exercising regularly can also prevent constipation.
Store magnesium citrate at room temperature, in a dry place, and avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Keep magnesium citrate out of reach of children.
Interactions of Magnesium Citrate with Other Drugs
There are several interaction effects that can occur if magnesium citrate is used with other drugs, namely:
- Increased blood phosphate levels when used with erdafitinib
- Decreased effectiveness of dolutegravir, baloxavir marboxil , or potassium phosphate
- Decreased levels of tetracycline antibiotic drugs , such as tetracycline HCl, oxytetracycline , minocycline, eltrombopag, doxycycline , or demeclocycline in the blood
Side Effects and Dangers of Magnesium Citrate
Some of the side effects that can occur after using magnesium citrate are more frequent, more watery bowel movements, cramps or abdominal pain , dizziness, excessive sweating, or electrolyte disturbances . Consult a doctor if these side effects do not improve or get worse.
See your doctor immediately if you experience an allergic drug reaction or more serious side effects, such as severe stomach pain, difficulty passing stools, or bloody stools after taking magnesium citrate.