The amount of magnesium your child needs to consume each day in order to maintain optimal health ranges between 80 and 410 mg, depending upon your child's age, the Office of Dietary Supplement reports. If your child does not receive enough magnesium from her daily diet, her pediatrician may recommend treatment with magnesium supplements. Discuss the side effects of magnesium in children with a medical professional before giving this supplement to your child.
Diarrhea
The side effects of this supplement are similar in both children and adults. Diarrhea is the most well-known side effect associated with magnesium treatment, the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University reports. Frequent diarrhea may also be accompanied by stomach fullness, pain or cramping. Consult your child's doctor if your child experiences recurrent bouts of diarrhea as this side effect may increase her risk of becoming dehydrated.
Stomach Irritation
Treatment with magnesium may irritate your child's digestive tract. Your child may complain of nausea or may begin vomiting. Stomach irritation may also affect your child's appetite and you may notice that she is uninterested in eating her favorite snack or meal. If stomach irritation persists, contact your child's pediatrician to ensure your child receives appropriate treatment and care.
Decreased Blood Pressure
Elevated levels of magnesium in your child's body may decrease her blood pressure. Symptoms associated with low blood pressure may include dizziness, breathing difficulties, flushing or loss of consciousness. Consult a medical professional if your child exhibits any of these symptoms while taking magnesium supplements.
Injection Site Reaction
Magnesium supplements may be administered orally or by injection. If your child receives a magnesium injection, she may develop a skin reaction at the injection site. The skin surrounding the site of injection may appear red or inflamed and may be sensitive to the touch. This side effect is temporary and typically diminishes within a day or two of treatment.
Overdose
Excessive or prolonged treatment with magnesium may cause magnesium toxicity in children. Children who overdose on this supplement may experience blurred vision, urination changes, severe drowsiness, breathing problems, decreased heart rate, dizziness or fainting, Drugs.com warns. Take your child to an emergency medical provider if she develops any of these side effects while receiving treatment with magnesium supplements.
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