Is magnesium oxide (MgO) safe during pregnancy?

From the Guidelines

Magnesium oxide is not explicitly mentioned as a recommended treatment in the provided guidelines, but magnesium sulphate is recommended for women with HELLP syndrome to prevent eclamptic seizures 1. However, this does not directly answer the question about magnesium oxide. Since there is no direct evidence provided about the safety of magnesium oxide in pregnancy, we must rely on general medical knowledge. Magnesium oxide is generally considered safe for use during pregnancy when taken as directed, but it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any medication during pregnancy. The typical dosage ranges from 400-800 mg daily, but always follow your healthcare provider's specific recommendations. Some key points to consider when taking magnesium oxide during pregnancy include:

• Staying hydrated, especially during pregnancy
• Being aware of potential side effects, including diarrhea, stomach cramps, or nausea
• Consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any medication during pregnancy, as individual circumstances may vary
• Following the healthcare provider's specific recommendations for dosage and duration based on specific needs and medical history
• Contacting the healthcare provider immediately if severe side effects occur or symptoms worsen. It's also important to note that while magnesium oxide is available over-the-counter, it's crucial to prioritize the guidance of a healthcare provider when taking any medication during pregnancy. In the context of the provided guidelines, it's clear that magnesium sulphate has a specific role in managing HELLP syndrome, but the safety and efficacy of magnesium oxide in pregnancy are not explicitly addressed 1. Therefore, it's essential to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare provider before using magnesium oxide during pregnancy. Some studies suggest that calcium supplementation, rather than magnesium oxide, may be beneficial in reducing the risk of pre-eclampsia 1. However, this does not directly relate to the safety of magnesium oxide in pregnancy. In summary, while magnesium oxide is generally considered safe, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before taking it during pregnancy, and to prioritize their guidance on dosage, duration, and potential side effects.

From the Research

Safety of Magnesium Oxide in Pregnancy

• The safety of magnesium oxide in pregnancy has been studied in various trials, with some indicating its potential benefits and others highlighting the need for caution 2, 3.
• A 2014 study published in The Cochrane database of systematic reviews found that oral magnesium supplementation, including magnesium oxide, was associated with no significant difference in perinatal mortality, small-for-gestational age, or pre-eclampsia compared to no magnesium supplementation 2.
• However, the same study suggested a possible increased risk of neonatal death prior to hospital discharge in infants born to mothers who received magnesium supplementation, although this result should be interpreted with caution due to the high contribution of one trial to the analysis 2.
• A 2023 study published in Archives of gynecology and obstetrics found that magnesium oxide alone and in combination with riboflavin was effective in reducing migraine frequency, severity, and duration in pregnant women, with no significant differences in baseline demographics between the two groups 3.

Potential Benefits and Risks

• Magnesium oxide may have benefits in reducing migraine symptoms and improving outcomes in pregnancy, but its use should be carefully considered due to potential risks and interactions 3, 2.
• The evidence base for the clinical use of magnesium oxide in pregnancy is limited, and more high-quality studies are needed to fully understand its effects and potential side effects 2, 4.
• Other formulations of magnesium, such as magnesium citrate and magnesium sulfate, have also been studied in various contexts, including their effects on arterial stiffness and blood pressure 5.

Clinical Considerations

• When considering the use of magnesium oxide in pregnancy, healthcare providers should take into account the individual patient's needs and medical history, as well as potential interactions with other medications 2, 3.
• The most appropriate dose and formulation of magnesium oxide should be carefully selected, and patients should be monitored for potential side effects and adverse events 4, 5.