Magnesium Conversion: 1.49 mg/dL to mEq/L
1.49 mg/dL of magnesium equals approximately 1.23 mEq/L.
Conversion Formula and Calculation
To convert magnesium from mg/dL to mEq/L, you need to understand that magnesium is a divalent cation (Mg²⁺) with an atomic weight of 24.3 1.
The conversion formula is:
- mEq/L = (mg/dL × 10 × valence) / atomic weight
- mEq/L = (mg/dL × 10 × 2) / 24.3
- mEq/L = mg/dL × 0.823
For 1.49 mg/dL:
- 1.49 × 0.823 = 1.23 mEq/L
Alternatively, you can convert to mmol/L first using the conversion factor 0.411 1, then multiply by 2 (since magnesium is divalent):
- 1.49 mg/dL × 0.411 = 0.612 mmol/L
- 0.612 mmol/L × 2 = 1.22 mEq/L (essentially the same result)
Clinical Context
This magnesium level of 1.49 mg/dL (1.23 mEq/L) is below the normal range and represents hypomagnesemia 1.
- Normal magnesium reference ranges vary by age, but for adults the typical range is approximately 1.7-2.4 mg/dL 1, 2
- The Mayo Clinic guidelines define hypomagnesemia as magnesium <1.7 mg/dL 1
- This level would be considered a modifiable risk factor requiring correction, particularly in patients at risk for cardiac arrhythmias 1
Clinical significance: At 1.49 mg/dL, this patient requires magnesium supplementation 1, 3. The route (oral vs. IV) and urgency depend on whether the patient is symptomatic, has cardiac risk factors, or is receiving QT-prolonging medications 1, 4.