Magnesium citrate is used to treat occasional constipation on a short-term basis. Magnesium citrate is in a class of medications called saline laxatives that causes water to be retained with the stool. This increases the number of bowel movements and softens the stool so it is easier to pass.
Magnesium citrate is also used to empty the colon (large intestine, bowel) before a colonoscopy (examination of the inside of the colon to check for colon cancer and other abnormalities) or certain medical procedures.
How does magnesium citrate work?
Compounds such as magnesium citrate work by pulling water into the intestines. This water combines with the dry stool, making it easier to pass. Medications that work in this way are called osmotic laxatives.
When used correctly, many people find that magnesium citrate is a simple solution to occasional constipation. Within 30 minutes to 3 hours after taking your dose, a bowel movement occurs. Stool formation and elimination can be slowed by taking the solution with food. However, if you intend to get quick results, take the solution on an empty stomach with a full glass of water.
Is magnesium citrate safe to use?
Magnesium citrate is generally safe for adults who do not have any health issues, and who only use it from time to time. Because magnesium citrate pulls water into the intestines from other areas in the body, people using it should drink plenty of water with it. They should also drink additional fluids throughout the day to prevent dehydration.
Magnesium is not a good choice for treating chronic constipation or constipation that requires ongoing treatment. Using it too often can lead to excessive dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
How should Magnesium Citrate be used?
Magnesium citrate comes as a powder to mix with a liquid and as a solution (liquid) to take by mouth. It is usually taken as a single daily dose or divided into two or more parts over one day. Do not take magnesium citrate for more than 1 week, unless your doctor tells you to do so. Magnesium citrate usually causes a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours after taking it. Follow the directions on your product label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take magnesium citrate exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Take the liquid product with a full glass (8 ounces [240 milliliters]) of liquid.
To prepare the powder for solution, mix the powder with 10 ounces (296 milliliters) of cold water or other liquids and shake or stir the mixture thoroughly. If needed, refrigerate the solution after mixing it, but mix it again before use. If the oral solution mixture is not used within 36 hours after preparation, dispose of the mixture. Be sure to ask your pharmacist or doctor if you have any questions about how to mix or take this medication.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for a copy of the manufacturer’s information for the patient.
Doctors often use higher doses of magnesium citrate as colon cleansers before surgery. The compound can have a powerful effect if a person takes too much. It is essential to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully whenever taking magnesium citrate.
Can I eat while taking magnesium citrate?
Take magnesium citrate on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Avoid taking tetracycline/quinolone antibiotics (such as doxycycline, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin) within 2 hours before or after this product. Laxatives can make it harder for your body to absorb certain other drugs.
In addition, people should not use magnesium citrate if they have rectal bleeding. People who have had certain procedures or have specific medical issues should also avoid magnesium citrate.
When can I start eating after magnesium citrate?
At least five (5) hours before your scheduled arrival time for a colonoscopy, you need to drink the entire content of the second bottle of magnesium citrate, and one 8 oz. glass of water. You should not have anything else to drink (or eat) until after your procedure (except the approved medications with a small sip of water).
For constipation, you can start eating again 2 hours after taking magnesium citrate. In magnesium citrate, magnesium in salt form is combined with citric acid. Magnesium citrate is absorbed relatively well by the body and has a high solubility in water, meaning it mixes well with liquid.
