Side Effects of Magnesium Complex

Side Effects of Magnesium Complex
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Magnesium complex is a supplement that provides all of the magnesium you will need to meet your body's daily requirement. Magnesium supplements are usually composed of magnesium citrate or magnesium gluconate. Magnesium is an essential mineral that is involved in numerous biological processes. Insufficient intake of magnesium may lead to a variety of health problems, such as reduced reflexes and cholesterol imbalance, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. However, while magnesium complex does provide adequate magnesium, it may have side effects.

Severe Allergic Reactions

Magnesium complex or magnesium citrate may cause you to develop a severe allergic reaction, according to Drugs.com. Allergic reactions include the development of a rash or hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or mouth, dizziness, sweating and weakness. If you develop these symptoms soon after ingesting magnesium complex, seek medical attention immediately. Severe allergies may cause respiratory arrest or cardiovascular shock. Once an allergy to magnesium complex has been established, you should avoid the supplement.

Blurred Vision

Blurred vision may be a side effect of oral magnesium, notes MayoClinic.com. The blurry vision may be described as double vision, a decrease in visual acuity or a decrease in night vision. This is a rare side effect of the supplement. Usually this side effect resolves after you stop taking the supplement. However, if the effect persists, you may need to consult a physician.

Diarrhea

Magnesium complex may cause diarrhea. Often the diarrhea is accompanied by stomach discomfort or pain. This is a more common side effect that should resolve spontaneously as your body adjusts to the supplement. However, if the diarrhea persists, you should seek evaluation for possible dehydration. Chronic diarrhea may require you to undergo re-hydration therapy or take anti-diarrheal medication.

Drowsiness

Severe drowsiness may be a side effect of an overdose of magnesium complex, according to MayoClinic.com. The drowsiness is a rare side effect if your kidneys are functioning normally. Magnesium is eliminated in the urine, so overdoses typically only occur if you take excessive amounts of the supplement or have kidney failure. If magnesium levels in your blood are chronically high, the possibility of drowsiness drastically increases.

References

Article reviewed by Leah Ann Crussell Last updated on: Oct 31, 2010

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