In general, the body uses magnesium to facilitate organ functioning. The mineral is also vital for teeth and bone health. As the University of Maryland Medical Center explains, magnesium also comes in different forms. One magnesium formulation offers a specific benefit while another kind has a different use. Magnesium citrate is recommended for constipation, for example. Take any supplement under medical care.
How Often to Take It
The University of Maryland Medical Center says you can take magnesium citrate for a maximum of one week unless a doctor tells you otherwise. The center also recommends you take the supplement on an empty stomach. During that time, the general dosage recommendation posted on Drugs.com is five to 10 ounces magnesium citrate daily followed by eight ounces of water or juice. The dose can be divided into equal amounts over a 24-hour period. This amount of magnesium citrate is for children 12 years and older as well as for adults. Younger children down to 6 years of age can take three to five ounces daily, followed by eight ounces of juice or water. Despite the general instructions, the American Cancer Society explains that the dose and the frequency with which you take magnesium citrate depend on why you need it. Therefore, the best course of action is to get medical advice before using the supplement.
Why Take It
Magnesium citrate treats occasional constipation. It produces a bowel movement 30 minutes to six hours from the time you take the dose. A doctor might also prescribe it to empty your bowels before a medical procedure.
How It Works
Magnesium citrate draws water from body tissue and it drives the moisture to the small intestine. This water transfer creates movement in the intestines, known as peristalsis, and it pushes impacted fecal matter out.
Contraindications
Magnesium citrate can neutralize the effect of blood thinners, heart medications and certain psychiatric drugs known as a group as phenothiazines. The supplement might also interfere with antibiotics. The American Cancer Society recommends taking the magnesium two hours away from any drug dose. Magnesium citrate is also contraindicated if you have kidney disease or are on a diet that restricts salt and magnesium intake. Tell your doctor if nausea, vomiting or stomachache accompany the bout of constipation.
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