Magnesium citrate is a mineral supplement used to increase magnesium levels in the body. It may also help relieve constipation and support normal muscle, nerve, and bone function.
Magnesium plays an important role in muscle and nerve function, blood pressure regulation, bone formation, and DNA synthesis. Magnesium citrate may also be used when low magnesium levels contribute to symptoms such as fatigue or muscle cramps.
Magnesium citrate is well absorbed and is available in the US in forms such as tablets, capsules, powders, and liquid solutions. Before using magnesium citrate, especially as a laxative or on a regular basis, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional because it can cause side effects and interact with some medications.
What is magnesium citrate used for?
Magnesium citrate may be used to:
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Relieve occasional constipation and promote bowel movements because of its laxative effect;
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Help support normal digestive function;
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Support normal muscle and nervous system function, including nerve impulse transmission;
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Contribute to the formation and maintenance of healthy bones and DNA synthesis;
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Support normal blood vessel function and blood pressure regulation;
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Support normal immune function and cellular health.
Magnesium is required for normal muscle and nerve function, blood pressure regulation, bone formation, DNA synthesis, and many other processes in the body. Adequate magnesium intake is also important for normal immune function.
Magnesium citrate is commonly used as a magnesium supplement and may be particularly useful for people who need to increase their magnesium intake. It is also available in the US as an OTC saline laxative for occasional constipation.
How to take magnesium citrate
How magnesium citrate is taken depends on its intended use and the type of product:
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For general supplementation, the amount of magnesium should be based on individual needs and the product label or recommendations from a healthcare professional;
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When used as an OTC saline laxative, the dose depends on the concentration and instructions on the specific liquid product. US magnesium citrate oral solutions are labeled for relief of occasional constipation and should be taken according to the Drug Facts label.
It is important to stay well hydrated and follow the instructions provided by a healthcare professional or on the product label.
The appropriate dose can vary depending on age, health conditions, dietary magnesium intake, and individual needs. Magnesium from supplements and medications should not exceed recommended amounts unless advised by a healthcare professional.
Duration of use
Magnesium citrate should not be used as a laxative for more than one week unless directed by a doctor. US OTC magnesium citrate labels advise consulting a doctor when a laxative has already been used for longer than one week.
When magnesium citrate is used as a long-term supplement, the duration of use depends on individual needs and the recommendation of a healthcare professional.
Prolonged or excessive magnesium supplementation can increase the risk of adverse effects, particularly in people with impaired kidney function. Regular medical follow-up may therefore be appropriate when magnesium supplements are used long term.
Frequently asked questions
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Magnesium also supports muscle function and bone health, which can be especially relevant during and after menopause.
Magnesium supplementation may also support overall well-being when magnesium intake is inadequate.
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Magnesium citrate may help promote relaxation because magnesium is involved in normal muscle and nervous system function. Some people choose to take magnesium supplements in the evening.
Although magnesium has been studied for sleep problems, its effects vary from person to person and it should not replace medical evaluation or treatment for persistent insomnia or other sleep disorders.
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Magnesium citrate is not specifically indicated for weight loss. It may support normal body functions associated with adequate magnesium intake, but it should not be considered a weight-loss treatment.
There is not enough evidence to support magnesium citrate as a primary strategy for losing weight.
Possible side effects
Magnesium citrate is generally well tolerated when used as directed. However, magnesium from supplements and medications can cause diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramping, particularly at higher doses.
More serious problems may occur with very high magnesium intake, especially in people with impaired kidney function.
When magnesium citrate is not recommended
Magnesium citrate should be avoided or used only under medical guidance in certain situations, including:
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Kidney disease or severely impaired kidney function, because the body may have difficulty eliminating excess magnesium;
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Persistent abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting;
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Rectal bleeding or a sudden change in bowel habits;
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A magnesium-restricted diet;
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Use of other medications that may interact with magnesium or be affected by laxatives.
US OTC magnesium citrate labels specifically advise people with kidney disease, abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting, or a magnesium-restricted diet to consult a doctor before use. They also advise consulting a doctor or pharmacist when taking other medications because laxatives can affect how other drugs work.
Before starting magnesium citrate, it is important to consult a healthcare professional when there are underlying health conditions, ongoing symptoms, or regular medication use.