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Citrate of Magnesia
  • Treatments
  • Constipation

Citrate of Magnesia

Generic name:magnesium citratemag-NEE-see-um-SIH-trate ]
Brand names: Citrate of Magnesia, Citroma
Drug class:Laxatives

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com on Sep 13, 2021. Written by Cerner Multum.

What is Citrate of Magnesia?

Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral that is important for many systems in the body, especially the muscles and nerves. Citrate of Magnesia also increases water in the intestines.

Citrate of Magnesia is used as a laxative to treat occasional constipation.

Citrate of Magnesia may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Warnings

Follow all directions on your medicine label and package. Tell each of your healthcare providers about all your medical conditions, allergies, and all medicines you use.

Before taking this medicine

Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to take Citrate of Magnesia if you have other medical conditions, especially:

  • kidney disease;

  • a sudden change in bowel habits that has lasted longer than 2 weeks;

  • stomach pain, nausea, vomiting; or

  • if you are on a low-magnesium or low-potassium diet.

It is not known whether Citrate of Magnesia will harm an unborn baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are pregnant.

It is not known whether magnesium citrate passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medicine without a doctor's advice if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Citrate of Magnesia?

Use exactly as directed on the label, or as prescribed by your doctor. Do not use in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended.

Take Citrate of Magnesia on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.

Measure liquid medicine with the dosing syringe provided, or with a special dose-measuring spoon or medicine cup. If you do not have a dose-measuring device, ask your pharmacist for one.

Take this medicine with a full glass of water.

Citrate of Magnesia should produce a bowel movement within 30 minutes to 6 hours after you take the medicine.

Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after 7 days of treatment, or if the medicine produces no results. Not having a bowel movement after using a laxative may be a sign of a condition more serious than occasional constipation.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.