Uses
Magnesium gluconate is used to treat low blood magnesium. Low blood magnesium is caused by gastrointestinal disorders, prolonged vomiting or diarrhea, kidney disease, or certain other conditions. Certain drugs lower magnesium levels as well.
This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Side Effects Of Magnesium Gluconate
Magnesium gluconate may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if either of these symptoms is severe or does not go away:
- diarrhea
- stomach upset
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- stomach cramps
- upset stomach
- vomiting
- flushing of skin
- dizziness
Warnings & Precautions
Before taking magnesium gluconate:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to magnesium gluconate or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other products with magnesium or tetracycline (Achromycin V, Panmycin, Sumycin), digoxin (Lanoxin), nitrofurantoin (Furadantin, Macrobid, Macrodantin), penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen Titratable), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had kidney disease, stomach problems, or intestinal disease.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking magnesium gluconate, call your doctor.
Dosage Of Magnesium Gluconate
Magnesium gluconate comes as a tablet and liquid to take by mouth. It usually is taken two to four times a day, depending on your condition. Follow the directions on your prescription label or the package label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take magnesium gluconate exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
To prevent side effects, magnesium gluconate should be taken with meals. If you are taking an extended-release (long-acting) product, do not chew or crush the tablet. There are some tablets that can be crushed and mixed with food.
Other
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your doctor will order certain lab tests to check your response to magnesium gluconate.
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription.
It is important for you to keep a written list of all of the prescription and nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines you are taking, as well as any products such as vitamins, minerals, or other dietary supplements. You should bring this list with you each time you visit a doctor or if you are admitted to a hospital. It is also important information to carry with you in case of emergencies.
Source
All information has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
