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Does Magnesium Help In Treating Asthma?

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Posted on Tue, 20 Jan 2015
Twitter Tue, 20 Jan 2015 Answered on
Twitter Thu, 5 Feb 2015 Last reviewed on
Question : what is a good magnesium supplement for asthma?
How many mgs
doctor
Answered by Dr. Saumya Mittal (25 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
1.2 to 2 gm iv over 15 to 20 mins

Detailed Answer:
Hi
I am Dr Mittal. I have read your query. I think I would be able to help you.

Magnesium has a doubtful role in severe acute asthma only. It is suggested for use only when conventional therapy fails. Also, prior magnesium levels should be tested.

A dose of 1.2 to gm iv over 15 to 20 mom's can be given. I prefer to give it over 1 hour while monitoring the patient on icu.

I have tried to make it as simple as possible. I hope that the information helps you. Please feel free to contact us for more information. Best of luck. Dr Mittal
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Saumya Mittal (22 minutes later)
I have read all over the internet how taking magnesium supplements helps asthma symptoms. I also read that an organization did a clinical trial with 170mgs twice a day showed significant improvement in asthma patients.
Is this supplement dangerous? They sell it over the counter at Walmart and people buy it everyday it seems.
Thanks
doctor
Answered by Dr. Saumya Mittal (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
trials are not guidelines

Detailed Answer:
Hi
I am aware of the studies you are quoting. I could in fact give you many more where they have said the magnesium is ineffective.

I would suggest that you differentiate between the two- trials and guidelines. As a doctor I prefer to treat by guidelines while keeping a watch on the trials. Eventually, trials help modify guidelines. But most trials have too many pitfalls to treat by them.

magnesium in overdose can affect kidneys and has adverse effects on cardiac status. Therefore ,I suggested testing magnesium levels before supplements are taken.

I have tried to make it as simple as possible. I hope that the information helps you. Please feel free to contact us for more information. Best of luck. Dr Mittal.
Note: For further information on diet changes to reduce allergy symptoms or to boost your immunity, Ask here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
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Answered by
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Dr. Saumya Mittal

Diabetologist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 2897 Questions

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Does Magnesium Help In Treating Asthma?

Brief Answer: 1.2 to 2 gm iv over 15 to 20 mins Detailed Answer: Hi I am Dr Mittal. I have read your query. I think I would be able to help you. Magnesium has a doubtful role in severe acute asthma only. It is suggested for use only when conventional therapy fails. Also, prior magnesium levels should be tested. A dose of 1.2 to gm iv over 15 to 20 mom's can be given. I prefer to give it over 1 hour while monitoring the patient on icu. I have tried to make it as simple as possible. I hope that the information helps you. Please feel free to contact us for more information. Best of luck. Dr Mittal