Magnesium citrate is not a beverage but an over-the-counter liquid laxative. It can work quickly or more gradually, depending upon how it's used, but dosing instructions allow you to tailor your dose to your needs. Just because magnesium citrate is available without a prescription does not mean it's perfectly safe for everyone -- certain people should consult their doctor before use, and others may wish to avoid the laxative entirely.
How It Works
Magnesium citrate has hyperosmotic properties, so it can trigger a bowel movement without the use of stimulants. After ingestion, the liquid finds its way to your small intestine, where it draws water from the surrounding tissues. This extra moisture works in two ways -- it lubricates your intestine, making it easier for stools to pass, and it adds bulk that can cause additional stools to form. The more volume in your intestine, the easier it is for your intestinal contractions to push the stool along until it results in a bowel movement. Because of this, magnesium citrate is especially helpful in cases where constipation is caused by dry stools or insufficient food intake.
Use
Follow the dosing directions on the bottle, and refrigerate it before use. Magnesium citrate works most quickly on an empty stomach, producing a bowel movement within 30 minutes to three hours if the full dose is used. Taking smaller doses on a full stomach can delay the action, which can be useful if you would prefer it to work like an overnight laxative. Always drink two glasses of water immediately after drinking the magnesium citrate, because you'll lose water during the osmotic process and the resulting bowel movement. Failing to hydrate yourself ahead of time can lead to dehydration.
Side Effects
Sometimes, magnesium citrate can work too well, and you may end up with diarrhea. You may also experience stomach cramps prior to the bowel movement as the laxative begins setting things in motion, and you may bloat temporarily. If the diarrhea is severe, you may become dehydrated and lose electrolytes -- drink a sports drink to rehydrate. Dizziness or lightheadedness may result from high levels of magnesium or potassium if your kidneys don't function properly.
Caution
Magnesium citrate should only be used short-term, or loss of bowel function could result. Ask your doctor before use if you have heart disease, kidney disease or high blood pressure or are pregnant. Magnesium citrate contains sugar, which may cause difficulties for diabetics. The laxative may interfere with certain medications such as blood thinners and phenothiazines, and it may prevent certain medications such as antibiotics and bone medications from working at all -- don't use magnesium citrate without a doctor's permission if you are taking any medication. Even if your medication is not affected by the laxative, you should not take magnesium citrate within two hours of any other drug.
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