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Can Magnesium Citrate Be Given To A Child To Treat Constipation?
My daughter is 8 years old. She is having pain in her stomach and a hard going to the bathroom. She has had problems with blockage before. I was wondering if it is safe or the right answer to give her magnesium citrate. Should I give her something else instead?
posted on
Sun, 3 May 2015
Medically reviewed by
Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team
Tue, 21 Feb 2023
Answered on
Thu, 23 Feb 2023
Last reviewed on
Hi,
It is not recommended to give magnesium citrate to children under the age of 12 without first consulting a healthcare professional. Magnesium citrate is a laxative that works by drawing water into the intestines, which can help to soften the stool and make it easier to pass. While it can be effective for treating constipation in adults, its use in children requires careful consideration and guidance from a doctor.
There are other options that may be more suitable for a child with constipation. One option is to increase the amount of fiber in her diet by including more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Drinking more water can also help to soften the stool and make it easier to pass. Another option is to try an over-the-counter laxative that is specifically formulated for children, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) 3350 or docusate sodium.
It is important to speak with your daughter's healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of her constipation and to receive guidance on the appropriate treatment plan. In some cases, constipation can be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires further evaluation and treatment.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
It is not recommended to give magnesium citrate to children under the age of 12 without first consulting a healthcare professional. Magnesium citrate is a laxative that works by drawing water into the intestines, which can help to soften the stool and make it easier to pass. While it can be effective for treating constipation in adults, its use in children requires careful consideration and guidance from a doctor.
There are other options that may be more suitable for a child with constipation. One option is to increase the amount of fiber in her diet by including more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Drinking more water can also help to soften the stool and make it easier to pass. Another option is to try an over-the-counter laxative that is specifically formulated for children, such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) 3350 or docusate sodium.
It is important to speak with your daughter's healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause of her constipation and to receive guidance on the appropriate treatment plan. In some cases, constipation can be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires further evaluation and treatment.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Priyanka, General & Family Physician
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