What is Magnesium Citrate?

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by: Darrell Miller
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Date: Mon, 8 Nov 2010 Time: 10:26 AM
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Magnesium citrate is a chemical compound consisting of magnesium salt and citric acid medically used as laxative or stool softener. It gives you relief if you are suffering from constipation and empties the bowel in preparation for a surgery or a colonoscopy procedure. It acts as stool softener by drawing enough water into the intestines through the tissues by a mechanism called osmosis. A soft or adequately moistened feces can be easily moved by virtue of peristalsis and gravity towards the rectum. Thus, defecation is induced. In addition to stimulation of bowel movement, the additional water in the intestines also facilitates in forming more fecal matter which then accelerates intestinal motility.

The usual adult dose for constipation is 240 mL or 1 glass taken orally at one time then observed for one day. For children less than 6 years old, give 0.5mL/kg with the upper limit of 200 mL and may repeat every 4 tp 6 hours. For 6 to 12 years old, give 100 to 150 mL. Any food, beverages or activities are not restricted while using Magnesium citrate, except when prescribed by a doctor. The solution works best when taken 1 hour to 30 minutes before meal and should always be taken with a full glass of water. Taking it with juice and acidic fruit extracts may also increase the absorption time and prevent certain complications. It usually takes effect within 30 minutes to 6 hours. To improve the solution's taste, refrigerate it or give it with cold beverages or ice. Just like any other medications, take this drug exactly as prescribed by your doctor. However, if you are taking this without prescription, see drug guide inside the package. If you are in doubt of the directions provided, ask help from an authorized and competent healthcare provider like nurses, pharmacists or doctors.

If you missed a dose, take the drug as soon as you remember but if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose. Double dosing is not advisable since overdose is possilbe. Signs and symptoms of magnesium citrate overdosage are gastric upset, nausea, vomiting, skin flushing, hypotension, slow heartbeat, drowsiness and even coma or death.

Generally, Magnesium citrate is a safe and effective medication. However, precaution should be observed since it may not be preferred as remedy in certain situations. Before using this as remedy, inform your physician if you have any major medical condition such as kidney disease or if you are currently taking other medications including health or herbal supplements. Never use this chemical agent as a laxative if you have gastrointestinal discomforts such as stomach pain and nausea or vomiting unless prescribed by a physician. One complication of taking Magnesium citrate is a rapid change in bowel habits that can be suffered over a period of two weeks. Bleeding in the rectum or inability to stimulate defecation after use may signify a more serious complication. In this case, you need to immediately stop using magnesium citrate and consult your doctor. This agent is safely used only within one week or as directed by a healthcare provider.

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To read more about magnesium citrate, visit http://buymagnesiumcitrate.com