Magnesium lactate is a naturally occurring mineral that is needed in the body to support the function of the heart, nervous system, and digestive system.

Magnesium lactate is used as a mineral supplement to treat magnesium deficiency.

Magnesium lactate may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take magnesium lactate if you have other medical conditions.

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.

Magnesium lactate may be taken with food if it upsets your stomach or causes diarrhea.

Take the medicine at the same time each day.

Do not crush or chew an extended-release tablet. Swallow it whole. To make swallowing easier, you may break the tablet in half.

Magnesium lactate may be only part of a complete program of treatment that also includes a special diet. Follow the diet plan created for you by your doctor or nutrition counselor. Get familiar with the list of foods you should eat to make sure you get enough magnesium in your diet. This may include green leafy vegetables, peas, beans, nuts, and whole grain cereals.

The recommended dietary allowance of magnesium increases with age. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions. You may also consult the Office of Dietary Supplements of the National Institutes of Health, or the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Nutrient Database (formerly "Recommended Daily Allowances") listings for more information.

Use magnesium lactate regularly to get the most benefit. Get your prescription refilled before you run out of medicine completely.

Do not share magnesium lactate with another person.

Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.

Usual Adult Dose for Dietary Supplement:

1 to 2 caplets every 12 hours with food

You should not use magnesium lactate if you are allergic to it.

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially:

• kidney disease;

• heart disease;

• if you are allergic to animals, food dyes, or other medicines;

• if you take a blood thinner (warfarin, Coumadin, Jantoven); or

• if you take an antibiotic (Cipro, Levaquin, penicillamine, Cuprimine, and others).

Ask a doctor before using this medicine if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are nursing.

Your dose needs may be different during pregnancy or while you are breast-feeding.

Do not give this medicine to a child without medical advice.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Overdose symptoms may include confusion, dizziness, extreme drowsiness, slow heart rate, muscle weakness, or loss of consciousness.

Avoid eating foods that are high in fat. High-fat foods can make it harder for your body to absorb magnesium lactate.

Do not take any other vitamin or mineral supplements that contain magnesium unless your doctor has told you to.

Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Common side effects of magnesium lactate may include:

• diarrhea;

• bloating, gas; or

• upset stomach.

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.

Other drugs may interact with magnesium lactate, 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.