Before taking magnesium citrate, it is essential that a person understands how it works, its side effects, and how it interacts with other substances.
There are times when magnesium citrate may not be the best option for treating constipation, and choosing other alternatives may help avoid any complications.
Causes of constipation
Constipation is when a person has fewer than three bowel movements a week. Stools are usually hard, dry, or lumpy, and may be difficult or painful to pass.
In many cases, addressing the underlying cause for constipation may reduce the need for medications, including magnesium citrate. These include a low fiber diet, immobility, dehydration, or medical conditions.
How does magnesium citrate work for constipation?
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.
Magnesium citrate may help treat constipation, but it might also cause a few side effects. Typical side effects from using magnesium citrate include:
- stomach cramps or a bubbling feeling in the stomach
- intestinal gas
- nausea or vomiting
- high magnesium levels
- changes in other electrolytes in the blood, such as sodium, calcium, or potassium
When the stool does come out of the colon, there is also a chance it will be loose or watery. Diarrhea is common after taking magnesium citrate. These side effects are usually mild and do not pose a serious risk to otherwise healthy people.
Drinking alcohol along with magnesium citrate may make diarrhea and other intestinal side effects worse.
Who should avoid magnesium citrate?
Magnesium citrate may interact with drugs, including specific antibiotics and medications that doctors prescribe to lower calcium concentration in the urine, such as potassium or sodium phosphate.
People on low-sodium or restricted-sodium diets should also avoid magnesium citrate.
Magnesium citrate can also decrease the body’s ability to absorb some medications. People taking any medication should speak to their doctor before using magnesium citrate.
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. Examples include:
- obstructions in the colon or stomach
- heart conditions or damaged heart muscles
- major kidney disorders
- high magnesium or potassium levels
- low calcium levels
People with a medical condition should talk with their doctor before using magnesium citrate to make sure it is safe to use.
Magnesium is safe to use for minor or occasional cases of constipation. It is not for long-term use. Anyone experiencing chronic, long-lasting episodes of constipation should avoid magnesium citrate.
Using magnesium citrate regularly may cause the body to become dependent on it, making it difficult for a person to pass stools without using laxatives. Anyone with chronic constipation should talk to their doctor to find long-term solutions for their symptoms.
People who are unable to take magnesium due to a medical condition or intolerance can try soluble fiber. Soluble fiber adds bulk to the stool, helping it get through the intestines.
People can choose from a variety of OTC fiber supplements, many of which contain fiber from plant sources, such as psyllium husk, glucomannan, or wheat germ.
People who experience occasional constipation can often improve their symptoms by increasing the amount of fiber they eat. Healthful sources of fiber include:
- whole-grain cereals and pasta
- fruits and vegetables
- beans and pulses
- prunes
Other methods
People can also try the following methods to relieve constipation:
- polyethylene glycol (Miralax)
- lactulose
- bisacodyl (Dulcolax)
- Senna
Preventing constipation
While magnesium citrate may be an efficient way to relieve constipation quickly, it is not a long-term solution. Taking steps to prevent constipation from developing may be the best way to avoid future symptoms and reduce the need for remedies, such as magnesium citrate.
Some tips to help prevent constipation naturally include:
- eating a diet rich in whole, natural foods, including a variety of fruit and vegetables
- adding more fiber to the diet, whether through food or natural fiber supplements
- drinking lots of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration that can lead to constipation
- exercising regularly to keep the bowels moving
Outlook
Most people will experience constipation from time to time, and it does not usually cause concern. It is generally okay to take magnesium citrate for occasional constipation, and it typically works quickly.
However, people should never use magnesium citrate to treat chronic constipation. People with frequent constipation should talk with their doctor.
Anyone experiencing side effects from magnesium citrate, or who finds that it does not work for them, should contact their doctor to talk about alternative treatments.
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