Magnesium is vital for the day-to-day operation of your body. Your heart, kidneys and muscles rely on this mineral, which also plays a role in regulating the levels of other minerals and vitamins in your body. You get magnesium from foods such as whole grains, green leafy vegetables and nuts, and deficiencies are rare. But some medical conditions cause magnesium depletion, which requires supplementation. Magnesium supplements can cause diarrhea and are often used as laxatives.
Forms
The magnesium you get from food does not act like a laxative, but the various magnesium supplements do. Magnesium oxide is the preferred form for deficiencies, but these tablets are also used for constipation relief. Magnesium hydroxide is better known as the popular liquid laxative milk of magnesia, and magnesium sulfate is better known as Epsom salts. Epsom salts can be dissolved in water and taken as a laxative. Magnesium citrate is another liquid laxative, frequently sold in carbonated flavors.
Mechanism
Magnesium-based laxatives work by drawing water into the intestines. The water softens hardened stool and lubricates the digestive tract, making the stool easier to pass. This can occur in as little as 30 minutes when taken on an empty stomach. The various magnesium formulations are so effective at triggering bowel movements that doctors frequently prescribe them to clear the colon before a colonoscopy. With liquid formulations, you can delay the effects by taking it on a full stomach for gentler relief.
Dosing
Women need 280 to 300 mg of magnesium per day, and men need 270 to 400 mg per day. If you are taking magnesium because of a deficiency, consult your doctor for the correct dose. If you are taking it as a laxative, follow the instructions on the product label to avoid a potentially harmful overdose. Magnesium oxide is generally taken one pill at a time, up to four times per day. Magnesium hydroxide is dosed at a maximum of 60 mL per day, while magnesium citrate is dosed at 240 mL per day. All forms of magnesium require you to drink a full glass of water immediately after administration to combat the dehydration that may occur as fluid is drawn into the intestine from the surrounding tissues.
Safety
Taken as a laxative, magnesium should only be used short-term to avoid dependence. Consult your doctor if you do not experience a bowel movement after taking a magnesium laxative. The most common side effects are cramping and diarrhea, but allergic reaction can occur. Seek medical attention if you develop hives, itching, weakness, nausea, vomiting or dizziness. Consult your doctor before use if you are pregnant, breast feeding, taking medications or have a medical condition.
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