TherapeuticUsesofMagnesium.PDF

complementary and ? alternative medicine Therapeutic Uses of Magnesium MARY P. GUERRERA, MD, University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, Connecticut STELLA LUCIA VOLPE, PhD , University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania JUN JAMES MAO, MD, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Magnesium is an essential mineral for optimal metabolic function. Research has shown that the mineral content of magnesium in food sources is declining, and that magnesium depletion has been detected in persons with some chronic diseases. This has led to an increased awareness of proper magnesium intake and its potential therapeutic role in a number of medical conditions. Studies have shown the effectiveness of magnesium in eclampsia and preeclampsia, arrhythmia, severe asthma, and migraine. Other areas that have shown promising results include lowering the risk of metabolic syndrome, improving glucose and insulin metabolism, relieving symptoms of dysmenorrhea, and alleviat- ing leg cramps in women who are pregnant. The use of magnesium for constipation and dyspepsia are accepted as standard care despite limited evidence. Although it is safe in selected patients at appropriate dosages, magnesium may cause adverse effects or death at high dosages. Because magnesium is excreted renally, it should be used with caution in patients with kidney disease. Food sources of magnesium include green leafy vegetables, nuts, legumes, and whole grains. (Am Fam Physician. 2009;80(2):157-162. Copyright ? 2009 American Academy of Family Physicians.) agnesium is the fourth most use (e.g., diuretics, antibiotics); alcoholism; abundant essential mineral and older age (e.g., decreased absorption of