Magnesium citrate is an osmotic laxative that could help treat occasional constipation. But it may cause some side effects, including diarrhea.
Constipation can be very uncomfortable and even painful at times.
Some people find relief from using magnesium citrate, a supplement that may help relax your bowels and provide a laxative effect.
Read on to learn more about using magnesium citrate to treat constipation.
Constipation is when you experience difficulty passing stool or you have less than three bowel movements per week.
It usually happens when waste moves through your system slowly. This may cause your colon to absorb the moisture in your stool, making your stools hard, lumpy, and difficult to pass.
Some causes of constipation may include:
- dietary habits, such as not eating enough fiber
- dehydration
- taking certain medications, such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, and antacids
- not exercising
- not passing a stool when you feel the need
- pregnancy
- certain health conditions, such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, hypothyroidism, or other hormonal disturbances
It’s common to experience constipation from time to time. It’s usually not a cause for concern.
However, chronic constipation may affect your quality of life and lead to complications if left untreated.
Speak with a healthcare professional if you experience:
- constipation for 14 days or more
- blood in your stool
- unexplained weight loss
- fatigue
A doctor could provide a proper diagnosis and develop a treatment plan for you.
Magnesium citrate is an over-the-counter (OTC) supplement that could help relieve constipation.
It’s a type of osmotic laxative, which means it relaxes your bowels and pulls water into your intestines. The water helps soften and bulk up your stool, which makes it easier to pass.
Magnesium citrate is relatively gentle. You may feel the need to pass a bowel between 30 minutes and 6 hours after taking the supplement.
You can find it at many drug stores, and you don’t need a prescription to purchase it. A doctor may also prescribe magnesium citrate to help you prepare for certain medical procedures, such as colonoscopies.
Magnesium citrate is safe for most people to use in appropriate doses, but some people should avoid using it. Speak with a doctor before taking magnesium citrate, especially if you have:
- kidney or renal insufficiency
- stomach pain
- nausea
- vomiting
- electrolyte imbalance
- a sudden change in your bowel habits that’s lasted over 1 week
- a magnesium- or sodium-restricted diet
Magnesium citrate may also interact with some medications. For example, if you’re taking certain medications to treat HIV, magnesium citrate can stop these drugs from working properly.
It’s also important to note the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not reviewed magnesium citrate for the treatment of constipation.
Ask a doctor if magnesium citrate can interfere with any medications or supplements you’re taking.
Like all medications, magnesium citrate may cause potential side effects, including:
- diarrhea
- stomach discomfort
- severe diarrhea
- severe stomach pain
- blood in your stool
- dizziness
- fainting
- sweating
- weakness
- allergic reaction, which may cause hives, trouble breathing, or other symptoms
- nervous system issues, which may cause confusion or depression
- cardiovascular issues, such as low blood pressure or irregular heartbeat
- metabolic issues, such as hypocalcemia or hypomagnesemia
If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking magnesium citrate and get immediate medical attention.
Magnesium citrate is available as an oral solution or tablet, which is sometimes combined with calcium.
If you’re taking magnesium citrate for constipation, it’s best to use the oral solution. People tend to use the tablet as a routine mineral supplement to boost magnesium levels.
People ages 12 years and older can take up to 10 ounces (oz) of an oral solution of magnesium citrate followed by a full glass (8 oz) of water daily.
Younger children ages 6 to 11 years can typically take up to 7 oz of magnesium citrate oral solution with 8 oz of water.
For children ages 5 years and younger, speak with a healthcare professional before giving them magnesium citrate. A doctor may recommend a better treatment option for constipation.
Remember to always follow the directions on the bottle.
In many cases, you can prevent occasional bouts of constipation by adopting certain lifestyle habits, including:
- getting regular exercise, such as incorporating 30 minutes of walking into your daily routine
- eating a nutritious diet with a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other fiber-rich foods
- eating unprocessed wheat bran, such as in smoothies, cereal, and other foods
- drinking plenty of liquids, especially water
- going to the bathroom when you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, as waiting can cause constipation
Learn more about remedies to help quickly relieve constipation.
How much magnesium citrate should I take for constipation?
People ages 12 years and older can take up to 10 oz of an oral solution of magnesium citrate in a 24-hour period.
How long after taking magnesium citrate will I poop?
The laxative effect of magnesium citrate should begin between 30 minutes and 6 hours after taking it.
Which is better, magnesium citrate or MiraLAX?
A
Magnesium citrate is an OTC supplement that may help relieve constipation.
Speak with a doctor if you notice side effects or don’t experience bowel movements. Your constipation may be a sign of a more serious health condition that could require medical treatment.
