The most common side effects of magnesium supplements are gastrointestinal and include:
- Diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
These side effects are usually mild but can become bothersome for some individuals[1][3][7].
Other possible but less common side effects include softening of the stool and, in rare cases, vomiting[3][5]. Magnesium supplements—especially in higher doses or if you have kidney disease—can cause more serious and potentially dangerous effects if too much accumulates in the body. Signs of an overdose or severe reaction may include:
- Muscle weakness
- Low blood pressure
- Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat)
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath (dyspnea)
- Confusion
If you experience allergic symptoms such as swelling, difficulty breathing, or rash, seek medical attention immediately, as these can indicate a severe allergic reaction[1].
Magnesium supplements can also interact with medications, including certain diuretics, heart medications, and antibiotics. If you have diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or intestinal disease, consult a healthcare provider before taking magnesium supplements[3][5].
To minimize risk, do not exceed the recommended daily intake for supplements: for most adults, this is up to 350 mg per day from supplements, although 400 mg or less is generally considered safe[2][4][6][7][8]. High intake from food sources does not pose the same risk for toxicity.
References
- [1] Magnesium Supplements – Uses, Side Effects, and More – WebMD
- [2] Magnesium Dosage: How Much Should You Take per Day? – Healthline
- [3] Potential Side Effects of Magnesium Supplements | Vinmec
- [4] Magnesium: Benefits, Sources, Doses and Types – Ada Health
- [5] Magnesium Glycinate: Is this Supplement Helpful for You? – Mayo Clinic Press
- [6] Others: vitamins and minerals – NHS
- [7] Magnesium Supplements: Benefits and Side Effects – Healthline
- [8] Magnesium Supplements: Benefits, Deficiency, Dosage … – WebMD
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