Uses
Magnesium is an element your body needs to function normally. Magnesium oxide may be used for different reasons. Some people use it as an antacid to relieve heartburn, sour stomach, or acid indigestion. Magnesium oxide also may be used as a laxative for short-term, rapid emptying of the bowel (before surgery, for example). It should not be used repeatedly. Magnesium oxide also is used as a dietary supplement when the amount of magnesium in the diet is not enough. Magnesium oxide is available without a prescription.
Side Effects Of Magnesium Oxide
Magnesium oxide may cause side effects. To avoid the unpleasant taste, take the tablet with citrus fruit juice or carbonated citrus drink. Tell your doctor if either of these symptoms is severe or do not go away:
- cramping
- diarrhea
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor immediately:
- rash or hives
- itching
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- mood or mental changes
- unusual tiredness
- weakness
- nausea
- vomiting
Warnings & Precautions
Before taking magnesium oxide:
- tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to magnesium oxide, other antacids or laxatives, or any other drugs.
- tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially other antacids or laxatives, anticoagulants (‘blood thinners’) such as warfarin (Coumadin), aspirin, diuretics (‘water pills’), medicine for ulcers (cimetidine [Tagamet], ranitidine [Zantac]), and vitamins.
- tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart, kidney, liver, or intestinal disease or high blood pressure.
- tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking magnesium oxide, call your doctor immediately.
- tell your doctor if you are on a low-salt, low-sugar, or other special diets.
Dosage Of Magnesium Oxide
Magnesium oxide comes as a tablet and capsule to take by mouth. It usually is taken one to four times daily depending on which brand is used and what condition you have. Follow the directions on the package or on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take it exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Take any other medicine and magnesium oxide at least 2 hours apart.
If you are using magnesium oxide as a laxative, take it with a full glass (8 ounces [240 milliliters]) of cold water or fruit juice. Do not take a dose late in the day on an empty stomach.
Do not take magnesium oxide as an antacid for longer than 2 weeks unless your doctor tells you to. Do not take it as a laxative for more than 1 week unless your doctor tells you to.
Other
If this medicine has been prescribed for you, keep all appointments with your doctor so that your response to magnesium can be checked.
Do not let anyone else take your medicine.
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.
