Pregnancy & Lactation: Risk data not available
What is Magnesium Sulfate?
Magnesium sulfate, sold as Epsom salt, is a mineral compound that’s used for different health and medical purposes.
It’s taken orally for occasional constipation, and it’s also used as a soaking solution to help relieve pain caused by soreness, muscle aches, sprains, bruises, or other ailments.
Magnesium is a mineral that your body needs to function properly. There are many formulations of magnesium supplements available.
Oral magnesium sulfate is believed to help with constipation by increasing water in the intestines.
This product is sold over the counter (OTC), but other formulations of magnesium sulfate are available by prescription only for specific medical and emergency situations.
It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor or a nutritionist before taking magnesium sulfate, especially orally, or if you’re using it for long periods.
Intermittent use of Epsom salt in baths (external use) at home is generally believed to be safe.
Warnings
What is the most important information I should know about Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salt)?
Do not use magnesium sulfate as a laxative without medical advice if you have:
- severe stomach pain;
- nausea or vomiting;
- a perforated bowel;
- a bowel obstruction or severe constipation;
- colitis or toxic megacolon; or
- a sudden change in bowel habits lasting 2 weeks or longer.
Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you have:
- diabetes;
- kidney disease;
- an eating disorder (anorexia or bulimia);
- if you have already been using a laxative for longer than 1 week; or
- if you on a low-magnesium diet.
It is not known whether magnesium sulfate will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication.
It is not known whether magnesium sulfate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I use Magnesium Sulfate
Use Magnesium Sulfate (Epsom Salt) 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.
Never use a higher dose of magnesium sulfate than recommended on the package label, or as your doctor has directed. Using too much magnesium sulfate can cause serious, life-threatening side effects.
Magnesium sulfate may be used orally (by mouth) or as a soak. Follow your doctor's instructions or the directions on the package.
To take magnesium sulfate orally, dissolve one dose in 8 ounces of water. Stir this mixture and drink all of it right away. You may add a small amount of lemon juice to improve the taste of this mixture.
Magnesium sulfate taken orally should produce a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours.
Drink plenty of liquids while you are taking magnesium sulfate.
If you have rectal bleeding or if you do not have a bowel movement after using magnesium sulfate as a laxative, stop using the medication and call your doctor at once. These may be signs of a more serious condition.
To use magnesium sulfate as an epsom salt soak, dissolve in a large amount of water in a large bowl, a bucket, a foot tub, or a bath tub. Follow the directions on the product label about how much epsom salt to use per gallon of water.
Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
Since magnesium sulfate is used on an as needed basis, you are not likely to miss a dose.
Magnesium Sulfate side effects
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Common side effects may include diarrhea 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.
What other drugs will affect Magnesium Sulfate?
Magnesium sulfate taken orally can make it harder for your body to absorb other medications you take by mouth, especially antibiotics. Avoid taking other medicines within 2 hours before or after you take magnesium sulfate as a laxative.
What to Expect
If you’re taking magnesium sulfate under your doctor’s recommendations to relieve constipation, it's common to experience a bowel movement within six hours.
Let your physician know if you notice any unusual side effects.
Additional Dosage Information
Your dosage will depend on your medical condition and how you’re using magnesium sulfate.
Follow the instructions on the product label carefully.
Secondary Uses
Magnesium sulfate may be used for purposes not listed in this medical guide.
Different formulations of the medicine are also used for other indications. For instance, the injectable form of magnesium sulfate is given to prevent seizures in certain pregnant women and for other medical emergencies within a healthcare setting.