What is the proper dosage and administration of magnesium citrate for constipation?

From the Guidelines

For constipation relief, magnesium citrate should be taken at a dose of 500 mg/d to 1 g/d, as this is a commonly used dose in clinical practice, although the exact dosage and formulation may vary. When taking magnesium citrate, it is essential to follow the recommended dosage and administration guidelines to minimize potential side effects and maximize efficacy.

• The typical adult dosage of magnesium citrate is not well established in the provided evidence, but a dose of 500 mg/d to 1 g/d is often used in clinical practice 1.
• It is crucial to note that magnesium citrate works as an osmotic laxative, drawing water into the intestines to soften stool and stimulate bowel movements.
• Patients should be advised to stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water after taking magnesium citrate to prevent dehydration.
• Magnesium citrate should not be used regularly for constipation as this can lead to dependence and electrolyte imbalances, and it is best used for occasional constipation rather than chronic cases.
• People with kidney disease, particularly those with a creatinine clearance of <20 mg/dL, should avoid taking magnesium supplements, including magnesium citrate, due to the risk of hypermagnesemia 1.
• Patients taking certain medications or with underlying medical conditions, such as heart conditions, should consult a healthcare provider before using magnesium citrate, as it can interact with some medications and may not be appropriate for everyone.

From the FDA Drug Label

Directions: shake well before using, drink a full glass (8 ounces) of liquid with each dose, may be taken as a single daily dose or in divided doses adults and children 12 years of age and over: 6.5 to 10 fl oz, maximum 10 fl oz in 24 hours children 6 to under 12 years of age: 3 to 7 fl oz, maximum 7 fl oz in 24 hours children 2 to under 6 years of age: 2 to 3 fl oz in 24 hours, maximum 3 fl oz in 24 hours children under 2 years of age: ask a doctor

To take magnesium citrate for constipation, shake the bottle well before using and drink a full glass (8 ounces) of liquid with each dose. The proper dosage is as follows:

• Adults and children 12 years of age and over: 6.5 to 10 fl oz, with a maximum of 10 fl oz in 24 hours.
• Children 6 to under 12 years of age: 3 to 7 fl oz, with a maximum of 7 fl oz in 24 hours.
• Children 2 to under 6 years of age: 2 to 3 fl oz in 24 hours, with a maximum of 3 fl oz in 24 hours.
• Children under 2 years of age: consult a doctor for guidance 2.

From the Research

Dosage and Administration of Magnesium Citrate for Constipation

• The proper dosage and administration of magnesium citrate for constipation is not explicitly stated in the provided studies, but it can be inferred that a high dose of oral magnesium salts is required to produce a laxative effect 3.
• A study on sodium picosulfate/magnesium citrate as a colorectal cleanser suggests that the preparation is effective in adults, adolescents, and children, but the dosage and administration may vary depending on the population and the specific procedure 4.
• Another study compares the efficacy and tolerability of split-dose magnesium citrate-low-volume polyethylene glycol (PEG) regimen with single- or split-dose PEG bowel preparation for morning colonoscopy, and finds that the split-dose magnesium citrate-low-volume PEG regimen is more efficient and preferred by patients 5.

Precautions and Potential Side Effects

• High doses of magnesium or prolonged use may allow sufficient absorption into the systemic circulation to cause renal or other organ toxicity 3.
• Sodium picosulfate/magnesium citrate may be associated with a dehydrating effect, as evidenced by a reduction in body weight and increased hemoglobin levels, and some at-risk patients may experience postural hypotension 4.
• A case study reports a severe electrolyte imbalance, including hyponatremia, after oral sodium picosulfate/magnesium citrate bowel preparation, highlighting the importance of monitoring electrolyte levels and hydration status in patients taking this preparation 6.

Dietary Magnesium Intake and Constipation

• A study examining the association between dietary magnesium intake and chronic constipation among US adults finds that increased intake of dietary magnesium is inversely associated with chronic constipation defined by stool frequency, particularly among men 7.