Magnesium citrate how fast

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.

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. Magnesium citrate may help treat constipation, but it might also cause a few side effects. Typical side effects from using magnesium citrate include:. 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. 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 taking any medication should speak to their doctor before using magnesium citrate. People who have had certain procedures or have specific medical issues should also avoid magnesium citrate.

Examples include:. 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. Magnesium citrate is an active ingredient in many branded over-the-counter OTC laxatives. Liquid oral solutions without any other active ingredients may be best for treating constipation.

Dosages vary based on the brand or concentration of magnesium citrate in the bottle. Always follow the dosage and read the instructions on the label carefully.

It is essential to mix the solution with water and drink additional water when taking magnesium citrate. Mix the dose with at least 4 to 8 ounces of water, and drink a few extra glasses of water throughout the day.

This may help replenish any fluids the body loses through the stool. Very high dosages of magnesium can cause magnesium toxicity, so always use as directed.

Always consult a doctor before giving magnesium citrate or any other laxative to children. Pregnant or nursing mothers should talk to their doctor or pharmacist about the correct dosage. Doctors may recommend other medications or supplements to help with symptoms. Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take this medicine if you have other medical conditions, especially:. It is not known whether magnesium citrate will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether magnesium citrate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are breast-feeding a baby. Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one. Magnesium citrate should produce a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours after you take the medicine. Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if the medicine produces no results. Not having a bowel movement after using a laxative may be a sign of a condition more serious than occasional constipation.

Since magnesium citrate is used when needed, you may not be on a dosing schedule. If you are on a schedule, use the missed dose as soon as you remember.

Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not use extra medicine to make up the missed dose. Avoid taking any other medicines within 2 hours before or 2 hours after you take magnesium citrate.

Laxatives can make it harder for your body to absorb certain other drugs. Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction : hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. Younger children ages 6 to 11 can typically take up to 5 oz. Speak with your doctor to learn if these standard dosages are safe for you or your child.

Follow the directions on the bottle. If your child is 2 to 5 years old, ask their doctor about the right dosage for them. If your baby or toddler is constipated, your doctor can recommend other treatment options. After taking magnesium citrate for constipation relief, you should expect the laxative effect to begin in 1 to 4 hours. Your constipation may be a sign of a more serious underlying health condition.

In many cases, you can prevent occasional bouts of constipation by adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Follow these tips:. They can help you determine the source of your constipation and recommend alternative treatment options.

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