Is magnesium glycinate effective for treating tic disorders?

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Last updated: May 13, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Magnesium glycinate is not a recommended treatment for tics based on the provided evidence, and its use should be approached with caution due to the lack of direct studies supporting its efficacy in this context. The provided studies focus on the diagnosis and management of cough, habit cough, and psychogenic cough, as well as the treatment of tic disorders with stimulant medications and α-agonists like clonidine or guanfacine 1. While magnesium glycinate may have a role in neuromuscular function and potentially calming effects on the nervous system, there is no direct evidence from the provided studies to support its use for tics.

Considerations for Tic Disorders

When considering treatments for tic disorders, it's essential to consult healthcare providers, especially for children or those with kidney problems. The potential benefits and risks of any treatment, including magnesium glycinate, must be weighed carefully. Conventional treatments for tic disorders, such as dopamine receptor-blocking drugs for Tourette syndrome, have a more established evidence base 1.

Approach to Treatment

Given the lack of direct evidence supporting magnesium glycinate for tics, a more evidence-based approach would involve considering established treatments for tic disorders, such as those outlined in the provided studies. For patients with comorbid ADHD and tic disorder, a trial of a stimulant could be undertaken with careful monitoring of tic symptoms 1. If tics worsen, alternative stimulants or the addition of α-agonists may be considered.

Conclusion on Magnesium Glycinate

While magnesium glycinate may be generally safe and have potential benefits in other contexts, its use for tics should not be prioritized over evidence-based treatments without further research directly supporting its efficacy in this area. As with any supplement, consulting a healthcare provider before starting magnesium glycinate, especially in vulnerable populations, is crucial.

From the Research

Magnesium Glycinate for Tics

  • There is no direct evidence in the provided studies to support the use of magnesium glycinate for tics 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • The studies focus on various treatments for tic disorders, including pharmacologic treatments such as clonidine, guanfacine, and dopamine receptor blockers, as well as behavioral therapy and deep brain stimulation surgery 2, 3, 5, 6.
  • Some studies discuss the importance of considering comorbidities and individualized treatment approaches for patients with tic disorders 2, 3, 4, 5.
  • A comprehensive systematic review summarizes the efficacy of various treatments for tics, including behavioral interventions, medications, and neurostimulation, but does not mention magnesium glycinate 6.

References

Guideline

Guideline Directed Topic Overview

Dr.Oracle Medical Advisory Board & Editors, 2025

Research

New treatments for tic disorders.

Current treatment options in neurology, 2006

Research

Tic disorders.

Continuum (Minneapolis, Minn.), 2013

Research

A Comprehensive Review of Tic Disorders in Children.

Journal of clinical medicine, 2021

Research

Treatment options for tic disorders.

Expert review of neurotherapeutics, 2020

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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