Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 30, 2022.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Epsal
- Epsom Salt
- Rite Aid First Aid Epsom Salt
In Canada
- Mag 2
- Magnesium-Rougier
Available Dosage Forms:
- Powder
- Powder for Solution
- Powder for Suspension
- Crystal
- Foam
- Spray
Therapeutic Class: Laxative
Uses for magnesium sulfate
Magnesium sulfate is used for short-term relief of constipation. It is also used as a soaking solution to relieve minor sprains, bruises, muscle aches or discomfort, joint stiffness or soreness, and tired feet. Magnesium sulfate is a laxative and soaking solution.
Magnesium sulfate is available without a prescription.
Before using magnesium sulfate
In deciding to use a medicine, the risks of taking the medicine must be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For magnesium sulfate, the following should be considered:
Allergies
Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to magnesium sulfate or any other medicines. Also tell your health care professional if you have any other types of allergies, such as to foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals. For non-prescription products, read the label or package ingredients carefully.
Pediatric
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated pediatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of magnesium sulfate to relieve constipation in children 6 years of age or older. However, safety and efficacy have not been established in children younger than 6 years of age.
Appropriate studies performed to date have not demonstrated pediatric-specific problems that would limit the usefulness of magnesium sulfate as a soaking solution in children.
Geriatric
No information is available on the relationship of age to the effects of magnesium sulfate in geriatric patients.
Interactions with medicines
Although certain medicines should not be used together at all, in other cases two different medicines may be used together even if an interaction might occur. In these cases, your doctor may...
