Is magnesium glycinate effective for treating nocturnal leg cramps (Muscle Cramp)?

From the Guidelines

Magnesium glycinate is a recommended treatment for leg cramps, with a suggested daily dose of 350-420 mg, which can be increased gradually as needed and tolerated. When considering magnesium supplementation for leg cramps, it's essential to prioritize the most recent and highest quality evidence available. According to a 2023 study published in the Mayo Clinic Proceedings 1, magnesium has been used in the treatment of various conditions, including erythromelalgia, due to its calcium channel blocking properties. While this study does not directly address leg cramps, it provides valuable insights into the use of magnesium supplementation.

Key points to consider when using magnesium glycinate for leg cramps include:

• Starting with the recommended daily allowance of 350 mg daily for women and 420 mg daily for men, as suggested by the study 1
• Gradually increasing the dose as needed and tolerated, due to potential gastrointestinal side effects
• Being aware of possible side effects such as diarrhea, muscle weakness, and hypotension, especially with high doses
• Considering liquid or dissolvable magnesium products for better tolerance

It's also important to note that magnesium plays a crucial role in muscle function and nerve transmission, and deficiency can lead to muscle contractions and cramps. Many people don't get enough magnesium through diet alone, making supplementation a helpful option. For immediate relief of leg cramps, complementary treatments like stretching, applying heat, or massaging the affected area can be used in conjunction with magnesium glycinate supplementation. If you're on medications or have kidney problems, it's essential to consult with your healthcare provider before starting supplementation.

From the Research

Magnesium Glycinate for Leg Cramps

• Magnesium supplements are often used to prevent leg cramps, but their efficacy remains unclear 2
• A 2020 study found that oral magnesium was not effective in preventing skeletal muscle cramps in older adults, with small and non-statistically significant differences in cramp frequency and intensity compared to placebo 2
• However, the literature on magnesium supplementation for pregnancy-associated leg cramps is conflicting, and further research is needed 2
• A 2019 study found that magnesium supplementation may not be effective for restless legs syndrome or periodic limb movement disorder, but the evidence was limited and inconclusive 3
• Other non-drug therapies, such as stretching exercises, may be effective in reducing the severity and frequency of leg cramps, but the evidence is uncertain and more research is needed 4

Alternative Treatments for Leg Cramps

• Vitamin B complex has been shown to be effective in reducing the frequency, intensity, and duration of nocturnal leg cramps in elderly patients with hypertension 5
• Quinine is a common treatment for leg cramps, but its effectiveness is doubtful and it can have adverse effects 5
• A 2015 systematic review found that various treatments, including magnesium salts, calcium salts, and stretching exercises, may be effective for idiopathic leg cramps and leg cramps in pregnancy, but the quality of evidence was generally low 6

Adverse Effects of Magnesium Supplementation

• Oral magnesium can cause gastrointestinal adverse effects, such as diarrhea, in some individuals 2
• However, major adverse events and withdrawals due to adverse events were not significantly different from placebo in the studies reviewed 2