Taking Magnesium? Health Experts Say These Two Groups Need to Be Extremely Careful
Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in muscle function, nerve signaling, blood pressure regulation, and many other body processes. While magnesium supplements are safe for many people when used appropriately, some groups should use extra caution and consult a healthcare professional before taking them.
1. People With Kidney Disease or Reduced Kidney Function
The kidneys help remove excess magnesium from the body. If kidney function is impaired, magnesium can build up in the blood and potentially lead to high magnesium levels (hypermagnesemia).
Possible symptoms of too much magnesium may include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Weakness
- Low blood pressure
- Confusion or drowsiness
- Slow heartbeat in severe cases
People with chronic kidney disease should ask a healthcare provider before using magnesium supplements.
2. People Taking Certain Medications
Magnesium can interact with some medicines by affecting how well they are absorbed or how they work. Extra caution is needed with medications such as:
- Certain antibiotics (including some tetracyclines and quinolones), because magnesium can reduce absorption if taken too close together.
- Thyroid hormone replacement medications, which may be less effectively absorbed when taken with magnesium.
- Some osteoporosis medications (bisphosphonates), which can also have reduced absorption when combined with magnesium.
A pharmacist or doctor can advise on proper timing and whether supplementation is appropriate.
Other People Who Should Be Careful
- Individuals taking multiple supplements or medications
- People with heart rhythm problems
- Anyone using high-dose magnesium products, especially laxatives containing magnesium
