Magnesium supplements are generally considered safe when taken at recommended doses (less than 350 mg daily for most adults), but they can cause several side effects, especially when taken in high doses or by individuals with certain health conditions[3].
- Common side effects include gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, softening of stool, vomiting, and abdominal cramping[1][3][7]. These are more likely with forms like magnesium carbonate, chloride, gluconate, and oxide, due to their laxative effects[7][8].
- Serious side effects can result from overdose or in people with kidney dysfunction. Symptoms of excessive magnesium (hypermagnesemia) include:
- Lethargy, dizziness, confusion, and depression[8][6]
- Muscle weakness and flaccid paralysis[2][6]
- Low blood pressure, irregular or slow heartbeat, and cardiac arrest[3][6][8]
- Facial flushing, blurred vision, headache[8][4]
- Respiratory depression or arrest in extreme cases[2][6]
- Urinary retention and decreased reflexes[4][6]
- Individuals with kidney disease, diabetes, heart disease, or intestinal disease should avoid magnesium supplements unless advised by their doctor, as impaired kidney function increases the risk of dangerous magnesium buildup[1][7].
- Magnesium can interact with certain medications, especially heart medications, diuretics, and antibiotics, potentially increasing risks or reducing effectiveness[1].
- Magnesium glycinate, a specific type, may be less likely to cause gastrointestinal side effects like diarrhea compared to other forms, but excessive intake can still lead to adverse effects[5].
Symptoms of magnesium toxicity can progress quickly; severe cases are medical emergencies. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting magnesium supplements, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take other medications[3].
References
- [1] Potential Side Effects of Magnesium Supplements | Vinmec
- [2] Magnesium Toxicity Symptoms
- [3] Magnesium – Uses, Side Effects, and More – WebMD
- [4] Can You Overdose on Magnesium and What Are …
- [5] Magnesium Glycinate: Is this Supplement Helpful for You?
- [6] Hypermagnesemia
- [7] Magnesium – Health Professional Fact Sheet
- [8] Magnesium overdose: Symptoms, likelihood, and risk factors
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