Magnesium Oxide: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects and Interactions

Magnesium oxide is a mineral supplement that helps your body maintain healthy magnesium levels and supports overall well-being.

It's commonly used to treat low magnesium, relieve digestive issues like heartburn, and improve nerve, muscle, and heart functions.

What are the Uses of Magnesium Oxide?

This supplement supports essential body functions and helps treat various magnesium-related deficiencies and conditions. The benefits of magnesium oxide include:

• Helps restore and maintain normal magnesium levels in the blood.
• Treats symptoms caused by too much stomach acid, like upset stomach, heartburn, and indigestion.
• Supports cell, nerve, muscle, bone and heart function.
• It can help with mood, sleep, and muscle recovery

Secondary Benefits of Magnesium Oxide

Magnesium oxide may also offer added health benefits beyond just treating deficiencies.

• Reduces the frequency and severity of migraines.
• Supports better blood pressure control and lowers stroke risk.
• It may improve symptoms of mild depression or anxiety.
• It may help improve mental well-being and reduce stress levels.
• It might help reduce the risk of colorectal tumors.

How Does Magnesium Oxide Work (Mechanism of Action)?

Magnesium oxide works by increasing magnesium levels in the body and neutralising excess stomach acid.

• Provides elemental magnesium, which supports cell and nerve activity.
• Acts as an antacid when mixed with water, relieving heartburn and indigestion.
• Helps regulate neurotransmitters and muscle contractions.

Dosage of Magnesium Oxide

Always take magnesium oxide exactly as directed by your doctor or the instructions on the package.

How to Take Magnesium Oxide

• With Food: Best taken with food to avoid stomach pain and diarrhea.
• With Water: Take each dose with a full glass of water (8 ounces or 240 milliliters).
• Tablets and Capsules: Swallow whole without crushing or chewing. Chew chewable tablets thoroughly before swallowing.
• Liquid Form: Use a proper measuring device, not a household spoon.

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Magnesium Oxide?

It's best to take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next one.

• Skip the missed dose if your next dose is near
• Don't double up

What Happens If I Take Too Much Magnesium Oxide?

Taking too much magnesium oxide can lead to serious side effects and should be treated immediately.

• Symptoms of overdose: nausea, vomiting, weakness, slowed heartbeat, or difficulty breathing
• Contact a doctor or emergency services immediately

What are the Side Effects of Magnesium Oxide?

While generally safe, magnesium oxide may cause side effects in some individuals.

Common side effects

• Headache, drowsiness, dizziness
• Abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea
• Lightheadedness, fast heartbeat

Severe side effects

• Rash, itching, swelling (especially face/tongue/throat)
• Trouble breathing or severe weakness

Seek immediate medical attention for severe reactions.

Precautions for Magnesium Oxide

Before using this supplement, inform your doctor if you are allergic to magnesium or other substances.

• Consult your doctor if you have kidney disease or heart problems.
• Be cautious of products containing sugar, aspartame, or alcohol, especially if you have conditions like diabetes, alcoholism, liver disease or PKU.
• If pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications, consult your doctor first.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Using Magnesium Oxide?

While it may be prescribed for children, use in younger age groups should always be under medical supervision.

• Not recommended for self-medication in children unless advised by a doctor.

Possible Drug Interactions with Magnesium Oxide

Magnesium oxide may interact with certain medications, affecting how they work or increasing side effects.

• May interfere with antibiotics, thyroid medicine, or bisphosphonates.
• Avoid taking other drugs within 2 hours before or after magnesium oxide.
• Talk to your doctor if using supplements or herbal products.

How Should Magnesium Oxide Be Stored?

Storing this medicine properly helps maintain its effectiveness and safety.

• Store at room temperature (20-25°C).
• Keep away from moisture and heat.
• Keep the bottle tightly closed and out of direct sunlight.
• Do not store in the bathroom or refrigerator unless advised.

What Happens If Magnesium Oxide Is Not Stored Properly?

Improper storage may reduce the medicine's effectiveness and pose health risks.

• Exposure to moisture, heat, or sunlight may degrade the product.
• Always keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Magnesium oxide vs Magnesium hydroxide

References