Introduction
Magnesium oxide is an inorganic compound that occurs in nature as the mineral periclase. In aqueous media combines quickly with water to form magnesium hydroxide. It is used as an antacid and mild laxative and has many nonmedicinal uses.
Uses
Magnesium oxide is a compound commonly used as a laxative for the symptomatic relief of acid indigestion and upset stomach, and in health supplements for cardiovascular and neuromuscular health.
Indicated for over-the-counter use as a supplement for cardiovascular and neuromuscular health, and as an antacid for relief of acid indigestion and upset stomach.
Associated Conditions
Mechanism of Action
The term "Milk of Magnesia" was first used to describe a white aqueous, mildly alkaline suspension of magnesium hydroxide formulated at about 8%w/v. Milk of magnesia is primarily used to alleviate constipation, but can also be used to relieve indigestion and heartburn. When taken internally by mouth as a laxative, the osmotic force of the magnesia suspension acts to draw fluids from the body and to retain those already within the lumen of the intestine, serving to distend the bowel, thus stimulating nerves within the colon wall, inducing peristalsis and resulting in evacuation of colonic contents. Magnesium supplements have also been shown to reduce platelet aggregation by inhibiting in the influx of calcium, a crucial component of platelet aggregation.
Food Interactions
- Take with food. When using magnesium to treat calcium oxalate nephrolithiasis, magnesium oxide should be taken with food.
- Take with or without food. Many different products contain magnesium oxide; refer to the product monograph for more specific instruction. Taking magnesium supplements with food may reduce the risk of diarrhea.
Dosage
Kidney failure: Do not take this medication in the patient with severe kidney failure.
Liver failure: There is no data about usage in the patients with liver failure.
