Calcium and magnesium are essential minerals for the maintenance of good health. Most people obtain enough magnesium by eating a balanced diet, and deficiency is rare. In contrast, calcium deficiency is more common. If you do not consume sufficient amounts of calcium through diet alone, your doctor may recommend a calcium supplement. Some calcium supplements contain calcium in combination with magnesium. Check with your doctor to determine the right formulation for your needs. Both calcium and magnesium supplements may cause side effects in some people.
Hypercalcemia
Hypercalcemia is a condition marked by elevated calcium levels in the blood. Signs of hypercalcemia may include numbness or tingling in the fingers, convulsions, vomiting, constipation, muscle cramps, an abnormal heart rhythm, lethargy, poor appetite, persistent thirst and fatigue. Severe cases may cause kidney failure. There are no documented cases of hypercalcemia from dietary intake of calcium, and the condition seems to occur only in response to the high levels of calcium in supplements.
Magnesium Overdose
Magnesium overdose has not been observed from dietary sources but supplemental magnesium or magnesium in laxatives and antacids may cause this serious side effect. An early sign of magnesium toxicity is diarrhea. As the condition progresses, other symptoms may include changes in mental state, confusion, nausea, poor appetite, weakness, difficulty breathing, abdominal cramping, low blood pressure and heart arrhythmias. Seek emergency medical attention if you suspect a magnesium overdose.
Gastrointestinal Upset
You may experience gastrointestinal side effects, including gas or constipation, from calcium supplements. Some people find relief by increasing the amount of fiber and water in their diet. Alternatively, you may be able to better tolerate a different type of calcium supplement. Try to increase the dose of your new supplement gradually and allow your digestive system to adjust. Begin by taking 500 mg each day for the first week and then increase the dose slowly until you reach the amount recommended by your doctor.
Drug Interactions
Before beginning any new supplement, discuss possible drug interactions with your doctor. Calcium supplements may reduce the absorption of the antibiotic tetracycline. If you are taking any medications that should be consumed on a empty stomach, you should not combine them with calcium supplements. Laxatives and antacids also contain magnesium and calcium. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking these medications, since your overall intake of magnesium and calcium may be higher than intended from supplements alone.
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