An occasional bout of constipation can cause you pain and discomfort. Constipation typically clears up by itself in a day or two, but you might need to take a laxative preparation occasionally to help move things along. Laxative products containing magnesium are classified as saline laxatives, or salts. They cause a rapid influx of water from the surrounding tissues into your intestines to soften the stool and promote elimination. Several over-the-counter magnesium laxative products are available for use, including magnesium hydroxide, magnesium oxide and magnesium citrate. Ask your physician for directions on the proper use of magnesium laxatives.
Magnesium Hydroxide And Magnesium Oxide
Step 1
Purchase a magnesium laxative product at your pharmacy or supermarket. Magnesium hydroxide, also known as Milk of Magnesia, is available in tablet and liquid form. Magnesium oxide is available as a tablet. Choose the type that is easiest for you to take or the one recommended by your doctor.
Step 2
Read the package directions on the product label or follow directions given to you by your doctor. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions regarding the directions.
Step 3
Shake the liquid magnesium hydroxide suspension and pour the specified amount into the measuring cup provided with the product. If you are taking magnesium hydroxide or magnesium oxide tablets, remove the number of tablets advised in the directions or by your physician.
Step 4
Drink at least one full 8 oz. glass of water or fruit juice with magnesium hydroxide or magnesium oxide tablets following a dose of liquid Milk of Magnesia. Your physician might recommend you drink a second glass to supply the laxative with enough water to work and to decrease your risk of becoming dehydrated from water loss.
Step 5
Wait 30 minutes to one hour for the magnesium laxative product to produce results. According to Drugs.com and PubMed Health, you shouldn't use magnesium hydroxide or magnesium oxide for more than one week.
Magnesium Citrate
Step 1
Purchase magnesium citrate solution or tablets at your local supermarket or pharmacy in advance. Magnesium citrate is a more powerful laxative, typically used in preparation for a colonoscopy or abdominal surgical procedure, but is also used to treat severe constipation.
Step 2
Read the directions provided by your doctor or listed on the product label thoroughly. You might have to take more than one bottle of magnesium citrate if you are using it for a bowel prep or less if you are using it for constipation. Your physician will give you exact directions on how much to take.
Step 3
Take the recommended dose of magnesium citrate liquid or tablets, measuring the solution into a dose-measuring spoon or cup if necessary. Follow either dose with a full 8 oz. glass of water. If you are using magnesium citrate as a bowel prep, your physician might direct you to drink more water and take additional doses.
Step 4
Remain close to your bathroom, as magnesium citrate products work very quickly.
Tips and Warnings
- Chill the bottles to improve the taste of liquid magnesium laxative products.
- Inform your doctor of all the medications and dietary supplements you are taking. Magnesium can interfere with some antibiotics and heart medicines. Use magnesium laxative products for occasional constipation. MayoClinic.com says frequent use can lead to dependence and damage your bowel and intestines. Consult your doctor first if you are diabetic. Some magnesium laxative products contain sugar.
Things You'll Need
- magnesium hydroxide liquid or tablet
- magnesium oxide tablets
- magnesium citrate solution or tablets
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