Generic name: magnesium citrate [ mag-nee-see-um-sih-trate ]
Drug class: Laxatives
Availability: Rx and/or otc
Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data available
Brand names: Citrate of magnesia, Magnesium citrate, Citroma cherry, Citroma lemon
What is Citroma?
Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral that is important for many systems in the body, especially the muscles and nerves. Citroma also increases water in the intestines.
Citroma is used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation.
Citroma may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Warnings
Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.
How should I use Citroma
Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.
Take Citroma on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.
Take this medicine with a full glass of water.
Citroma should produce a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours after you take the medicine.
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if the medicine produces no results. Not having a bowel movement after using a laxative may be a sign of a condition more serious than occasional constipation.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Before Taking
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take Citroma if you have other medical conditions, especially:
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kidney disease;
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a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted longer than 2 weeks;
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stomach pain, nausea, vomiting; or
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if you are on a low-magnesium or low-potassium diet.
It is not known whether Citroma will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are pregnant.
It is not known whether magnesium citrate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.
What happens if I miss a dose?
Since Citroma is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are on a schedule, use the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.
What should I avoid while using Citroma?
Avoid taking any other medicines within 2 hours before or 2 hours after you take Citroma. Laxatives can make it harder for your body to absorb certain other drugs.
Citroma side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Citroma may cause serious side effects. Stop using Citroma and call your doctor at once if you have:
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no bowel movement within 6 hours after taking the medicine;
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pain with bowel movements, rectal bleeding;
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watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, severe stomach pain;
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painful or difficult urination;
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flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
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a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
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weak or shallow breathing, slow heartbeats; or
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muscle weakness, increased thirst.
Common side effects of Citroma may include:
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loose stools, diarrhea, stomach cramps;
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upset stomach;
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dizziness; or
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increased sweating.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
See more: Citroma Side EffectsWhat other drugs will affect Citroma?
Other drugs may interact with magnesium citrate, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell each of your health care providers about all medicines you use now and any medicine you start or stop using.