Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Magnesium Citrate?
Magnesium citrate is used to treat occasional constipation.
Magnesium is a mineral that your body needs to function properly. There are many formulations of magnesium supplements available.
Magnesium citrate is in a class of drugs called saline laxatives. It works by increasing fluid in the small intestine.
It’s best to talk with your physician or a nutritionist before taking magnesium citrate or using it for long periods.
Warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Magnesium Citrate (Citrate of Magnesia)?
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially:
- kidney disease;
- a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted longer than 2 weeks;
- stomach pain, nausea, vomiting; or
- if you are on a low-magnesium or low-potassium diet.
It is not known whether magnesium citrate 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.
How should I use Magnesium Citrate
Use Magnesium Citrate (Citrate of Magnesia) 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.
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 magnesium citrate 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.
Magnesium citrate 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.
Since magnesium citrate 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.
Magnesium Citrate 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.
Stop using magnesium citrate and call your doctor at once if you have:
- no bowel movement within 6 hours after taking the medicine;
- pain with bowel movements, rectal bleeding;
- watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, severe stomach pain;
- painful or difficult urination;
- flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling);
- a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
- weak or shallow breathing, slow heartbeats; or
- muscle weakness, increased thirst.
Common side effects may include:
- loose stools, diarrhea, stomach cramps;
- upset stomach;
- dizziness; or
- 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.
What other drugs will affect Magnesium Citrate?
Avoid taking any other medicines within 2 hours before or 2 hours after you take magnesium citrate. Laxatives can make it harder for your body to absorb certain other drugs.
What to Expect
Magnesium citrate usually produces a bowel movement within six hours.
Let your doctor know if you don’t experience relief or if you notice any unusual symptoms.
Be sure to drink plenty of water while taking magnesium citrate to avoid dehydration.
Additional Dosage Information
Your dosage will be based on your medical condition and age.
Secondary Uses
Magnesium citrate may be used for other purposes, such as to empty the colon before a medical procedure.