Constipation is a common condition in children and is typically characterized by difficult, painful, infrequent or unusually dry bowel movements. Children typically become constipated because they choose to ignore bowel movement urges -- a condition referred to as stool withholding, the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse explains. If your child experiences recurrent bouts of constipation, talk with a doctor about giving your child magnesium to resolve bowel movement problems.
How It Works
Magnesium helps pull water into your child's intestinal tract from surrounding tissues. This increase in water causes the muscles that line the digestive tract to contract, stimulating the movement of ingested food products along the bowels. Consequently, children with constipation may experience relief from bowel movement discomfort following treatment with magnesium.
Available Preparations
Magnesium is available over-the-counter in a variety of preparations. Commonly used forms of magnesium include magnesium citrate and magnesium oxide. Magnesium citrate is usually administered as a liquid, while magnesium oxide can be given as an oral capsule, tablet or caplet. If your child is constipated, consult your pediatrician before giving your child any type of over-the-counter laxative -- including magnesium.
Potential Side Effects
Although magnesium can reduce discomfort associated with constipation, additional side effects may arise in certain children following treatment with this type of laxative. Health professionals with KidsHealth from Nemours report that children who take magnesium oxide may experience diarrhea. Alternatively, magnesium citrate may cause abdominal cramping or pain, bloating, nausea or diarrhea. Children who develop diarrhea that lasts for more than a day should be evaluated by a doctor. Chronic diarrhea may result in the loss of electrolytes and can increase your child's risk of becoming dehydrated.
Contraindications
Despite the potential benefits that magnesium may impart when used to treat children with constipation, this laxative isn't appropriate for all children. If your child has a nerve disease, consult a doctor before administering magnesium. Children who have kidney, stomach, intestinal or heart disease shouldn't take magnesium citrate, the American Cancer Society reports. In addition, do not give magnesium to children who are allergic to magnesium or any types of dyes, food preservatives or medications. Hypersensitive children who are exposed to magnesium may develop life-threatening symptoms, including shortness of breath and facial swelling. Children who display such symptoms require emergency medical attention.
References
- "American Academy of Family Physicians"; Evaluation and Treatment of Constipation in Infants and Children; Dr. Wendy S. Biggs, et al.; February 2006
- KidsHealth from Nemours: Constipation
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Constipation in Children
- American Cancer Society: Magnesium Citrate
- KidsHealth from Nemours: Medications: What You Should Know: Magnesium Oxide
