While many people can meet their recommended dietary allowance of magnesium through food alone, you may benefit from magnesium supplements if you have diabetes, alcoholism, chronic malabsorptive problems or a poor diet. You also may need these supplements if you are an older adult, take a medication that interferes with magnesium levels in the body or have an existing magnesium deficiency. Although these supplements are typically safe when used as directed, always follow a few precautions to prevent harmful side effects.
Dosage
Monitor the amount of magnesium you get each day through supplements. While the recommended dosage varies depending on your specific situation, never exceed the tolerable upper intake level for magnesium unless your doctor specifically instructs you to do so. The tolerable upper intake level for people older than 8 years is 350 mg of magnesium a day. Exceeding this amount increases your risk of side effects. If you have specific questions or concerns about your dose of magnesium, contact your doctor.
Side Effects
While it is unlikely that you will experience any side effects if you consume less than the tolerable upper intake level, it is possible. Contact your doctor if you notice any unusual physical reactions after taking a magnesium supplement. Potential side effects of getting too much magnesium are stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, muscle weakness, loss of appetite, very low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat and changes to your mental status.
Interactions
Magnesium supplements may interact negatively with the medications Lasix, Bumex, Edecrin, hydrochlorothiazide, cisplatin, gentamicin, amphotericin and tetracycline antibiotics. Many over-the-counter antacids and laxatives contain magnesium, so taking these products while taking magnesium supplements may cause you to inadvertently consume too much. Always report all of your current supplements and medications to your doctor or pharmacist before taking magnesium supplements.
Magnesium Levels
Ask your doctor how often you should have your magnesium levels checked while taking magnesium supplements. This may depend on a number of factors, including your previous magnesium levels, medical condition, dosage or the type of magnesium you take. For example, someone with a severe magnesium deficiency who is getting magnesium intravenously may need to have her levels checked several times a day, but a healthy individual with no existing medical condition may not require a magnesium level check at all. Always follow your doctor's recommendations and talk to him if you have any specific concerns about your condition.
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