Synonyms/Common Names/Related Substances:

• Chelated magnesium, Emgesan®, Epsom salts, magnesia, magnesium aluminum sulfite, magnesium aspartate, magnesium carbonate, magnesium chloride, magnesium citrate, magnesium diglycine, magnesium disuccinate hydrate, magnesium gluconate, magnesium glycerophosphate, magnesium glycinate, magnesium hydroxide, magnesium lactate, magnesium malate, magnesium murakab, magnesium orotate, magnesium oxide, magnesium phosphate, magnesium pidolate, magnesium salicylate, magnesium sulfate, magnesium trisilicate, milk of magnesia, Slo-Mag®, Super Malic®.
• Note: The evidence table and discussion for this monograph are limited to meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and randomized controlled trials.

Clinical Bottom Line/Effectiveness

Brief Background:

• Magnesium is the second most abundant intracellular cation (positively charged ion) in the human body and is involved in more than 300 enzymatic reactions.
• Magnesium sulfate has been the mainstay for the treatment of eclampsia and pre-eclampsia (toxemia of pregnancy) for decades. Strong evidence exists that magnesium sulfate is effective in the treatment of seizures in patients with pre-eclampsia and further seizures in patients with eclampsia.
• Magnesium has reportedly been shown to be an effective adjunct (given either intravenously or with a nebulizer) for the treatment of acute childhood asthma. Some studies have also shown benefit of magnesium for the treatment of cardiac arrhythmias, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), type 2 diabetes, hearing loss, leg cramps during pregnancy, mitral valve prolapse symptoms, succinylcholine-induced fasciculation, and thrombolysis after an acute myocardial infarction. At higher dosages, magnesium may control hypertension, although evidence in this area is unclear.

Dosing/Toxicology

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Precautions/Contraindications

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Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

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Mechanism of Action

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History

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Evidence Table

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Evidence Discussion

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Products Studied

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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