From the Guidelines
Magnesium phosphate is not the most recommended form of magnesium for relieving period cramps, as the evidence for its effectiveness is limited, and other forms like magnesium oxide, citrate, or glycinate have more research supporting their use. Magnesium helps relax muscles and may decrease prostaglandins that cause menstrual pain [ 1 ]. For menstrual cramps, magnesium oxide, citrate, or glycinate at 300-400mg daily is typically recommended, starting a few days before your period and continuing through it. Some key points to consider when using magnesium for period cramps include:
- Common side effects of magnesium supplements include digestive issues like diarrhea
- While generally safe for most people, those with kidney problems should consult a healthcare provider before taking magnesium supplements
- Other effective approaches for period pain include over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen, heat therapy, gentle exercise, and staying hydrated. It's also worth noting that the provided evidence [ 1 ] discusses various treatments for migraines, including NSAIDs, serotoninergic agents, hormone therapy, feverfew, and vitamins and minerals, but does not specifically address magnesium phosphate for period cramps. However, it does mention that two studies showed benefits of magnesium over placebo for migraine prevention, which may be relevant to its potential use for menstrual cramps.
From the FDA Drug Label
Relief of symptoms of muscular cramps and pains (e.g.menstrual cramps) relieved by warmth,stomach cramps,headaches with darting pains. Magnesium phosphate may help with period cramping, as it is indicated for relief of symptoms of muscular cramps and pains, including menstrual cramps 2.
From the Research
Magnesium Phosphate and Menstrual Cramping
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that specifically addresses the effectiveness of magnesium phosphate in relieving menstrual cramping.
- However, studies have investigated the role of magnesium in alleviating menstrual symptoms, including cramping 3, 4.
- A study from 1998 found that magnesium supplementation reduced symptoms of fluid retention associated with premenstrual syndrome, but it did not specifically address menstrual cramping 3.
- Another study from 2012 examined the effects of magnesium on skeletal muscle cramps, including those associated with pregnancy, and found that magnesium supplementation had a small, non-significant effect on cramp frequency in older adults with idiopathic cramps 4.
- The same study found conflicting evidence for the use of magnesium in pregnancy-associated leg cramps, suggesting that further research is needed in this area 4.
- Other studies have investigated the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other medications for the treatment of menstrual cramping, but did not address the specific use of magnesium phosphate 5, 6, 7.