Magnesium is an essential mineral that your body needs to produce energy, synthesize nucleic acids and proteins and support the structure of bones, cell membranes and chromosomes. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe magnesium for the treatment of specific diseases.
Pharmacologic Dosages
When magnesium is prescribed in the treatment of a specific illness, the dosage may exceed what is normally considered the tolerable upper intake level for this mineral, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Pharmacologic dosages of magnesium have been use in studies on high blood pressure, preeclampsia-eclampsia, myocardial infarction, diabetes, migraine headache and asthma. Larger than normal dosages of magnesium should not be taken except under medical supervision, due to the risk of side effects.
Forms
Pharmaceutical magnesium can take many different forms in addition to pills and capsules. The Linus Pauling Institute states that an inhalable, nebulized form of magnesium may increase lung function in those with acute asthma. Intravenous infusions of magnesium may decrease the risk of death after heart attack. A salt solution containing magnesium was found to improve fasting insulin levels in type 2 diabetics. MayoClinic.com states that injectable magnesium and some forms of oral magnesium are available only with a prescription. A study published in the journal “Urological Research” in September 2010 compared two types of pharmaceutical magnesium, an oral capsule and an effervescent tablet. The effervescent tablet was more bioavailable, meaning that it is easier for your body to digest and absorb.
Side Effects
If you are taking pharmaceutical magnesium and experience rare side effects such as dizziness, fainting, flushing, irritation at the injection site, muscle paralysis or trouble breathing, MayoClinic.com advises you to see a doctor immediately. Signs of magnesium overdose include double vision, dizziness, severe drowsiness, changes in urination frequency, decreased heart rate and trouble breathing. Diarrhea is a less common side effect with oral magnesium.
Considerations
Unless you have been instructed by your health care provider to take magnesium supplements, it’s best to get your magnesium through dietary sources rather than supplements. Dietary sources of magnesium have never been associated with adverse effects, according to the Linus Pauling Institute, but magnesium supplements have been linked to numerous adverse effects, such as diarrhea, low blood pressure, heart arrhythmias, muscle weakness and cardiac arrest.
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