Patients who suffer from occasional constipation can experience feelings of anxiety and discomfort. Many people turn to over-the-counter laxatives to relieve symptoms of constipation. Magnesium citrate produces a laxative effect when ingested orally and is widely available for purchase without a prescription.
Constipation
Symptoms of constipation include feelings of fullness, bloating, infrequent bowel movements, hard stools, and difficulty passing stools. Although frequent and prolonged constipation should always be treated by a physician, you can treat occasional episodes with the use of over-the-counter laxatives and stool softeners. If left untreated, constipation can result in severe abdominal pain and fecal impaction.
Magnesium Citrate
Classified as an osmotic saline laxative, magnesium citrate produces a laxative effect by drawing water into the intestinal tract. The presence of water inside the intestines can soften stools and promote fecal motility. Magnesium citrate for the purpose of treating constipation is typically formulated as an ingestible solution. In addition to treating constipation, magnesium citrate may be utilized under the guidance of a physician for the purpose of cleansing the bowel in preparation for a colonoscopy.
Directions for Use
According to the directions for use on the label of Citroma, a brand of magnesium citrate solution, the adult dose is between 6.5 and 10 fluid oz. per dose. The maximum recommended adult dose is 10 fluid oz. per day. You should take each dose with a full glass of water. Although labeling does provide lower dosing guidelines for children, parents should always check with a physician before administering magnesium citrate to a child.
Safety
Although relatively safe, magnesium citrate can result in diarrhea and dehydration. In addition, excessive and prolonged use can cause elevated magnesium levels within the body. Magnesium may also interfere with the absorption of certain medications. Patients with concerns about constipation or the use of magnesium citrate should speak with a physician.
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