What Causes Diarrhoea After Taking Magnesium Citrate?

Posted on Wed, 15 Jul 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 15 Jul 2015 Answered on

Tue, 4 Aug 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I have been using Magnesium Citrate for about three weeks 250 to 500 mg at night before going to bed. I'm taking it because I have severe leg cramps. For at least three weeks my stools have been watery and diarrhea-like. I just realized that my diarrhea symptoms might be caused by the Magnesium. I am usually very regular and have normal bowel movements. Also take Triple Fiber. XXXX XXXXXXX YYYY@YYYY
My leg cramps are severe because of several medications (for heart disease) I am taking. What can I do if I can't take magnesium?

Answered by Dr. Sandip Kabra (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
You should take electrolytes rich fruit juices especially potassium.

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX
Welcome to health care magic,

It could be possible that you have watery diarrhoea because of this Magnesium Citrate.So,better to stop further intake of that.

For leg cramps (as a result diarrhoea),you should take electrolytes rich fruit juices especially potassium.Also take plenty of fluids orally to avoid dehydration.

You should take coconut water,beans, potatoes, squash, yogurt and bananas to replenish the potassium store in the body which is the likely cause of your leg cramps.

You can have liquid Potklor (source of potassium chloride) 2 TSF three times a day which will be available over the counter or some local doctor or GP may prescribe it.

If your watery diarrhoea do not subside then consult some local doctor for proper antibiotics and other supportive treatment.

Hope this information will help you and if you need more clarification then just let me know.

Regards,

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Neel Kudchadkar